Challenge Program

In 2008, The Challenge Foundation established by Don & Janis McFall, partnered with Loretto Academy to develop the Loretto Academy Challenge Program. At the core of the Challenge Program’s mission is our unique approach to empower students through equitable access to education and experiential learning which allows Challenge Scholars to pursue their goals and chart their own course. Challenge takes a whole-student approach, awarding tuition scholarships and individualized support services to students from underserved communities.

Our comprehensive admission process takes into account strengths, need, and fit for each student and family, to determine scholarship eligibility. Based on the need in our community, the application process is competitive, and Challenge is committed to a thoughtful and thorough review of each applicant. Four gifted-yet-under-served 4th grade students are selected each year to receive a full scholarship to attend Loretto Academy beginning with her 6th-grade year through high school. Parental commitment and support are essential to the student and the program’s success.

The program’s short-term goal is for Challenge Scholars to graduate from Loretto Academy, apply to college, and obtain sufficient financial assistance. The long-term goal is for each Challenge Program Scholar, confident in her journey, to engage in continuous learning and growth, fostering a community of inclusivity where she has a strong sense of belonging.