The Dare to Dream programme empowers talented young people from all backgrounds to access a world-class education at UWC. With full scholarships for students facing financial hardship, it breaks down financial barriers for some of the world’s most promising young leaders.
Founded by UWC patron Shelby Davis, his wife Gale Davis, and Phil Geier, the programme has already impacted over 1,000 students from 150+ countries. Its unique scholarship matching initiative doubles donors’ impact, expanding the number of full scholarships and growing UWC’s global community.
Timeline
- 2018: Dare to Dream launched, supporting 100 students annually.
- 2021: Dare to Dream 2 expands, increasing support to 200 students and introducing a full scholarship match programme
- Since 2023: Over 70 donors — including philanthropists, alumni, friends, institutions, and giving circles — support students through Dare to Dream 2, leveraging the match system to amplify their support.
- 2024: Shelby Davis boosts match funding to support up to 350 students annually, expanding opportunities for donor involvement.
Impact:
- 1,000+ students supported from 150+ countries
- Full scholarships providing access to a world-class education
- Increased diversity and global perspectives at UWC schools
- Scholars making a lasting impact at top U.S. universities as part of the Davis UWC Scholars Program
Why Support Dare to Dream?
Dare to Dream is more than a scholarship—it’s a catalyst for change. By supporting this initiative, you help shape the next generation of leaders, fostering peace, sustainability, and intercultural understanding. Every donation, large or small, amplifies the program’s impact, doubling the opportunities available for deserving students.
How You Can Get Involved
- Donate: Your contribution can transform a young person’s life and expand access to education.
- Join the Matching Challenge: Full scholarship donations are matched, amplifying the impact of your giving.
- Spread the Word: Share the programme with your network and help us reach more students.
Join UWC’s growing community of over 70 donors globally who have taken part in Dare to Dream’s matching challenge, doubling the impact of their donations.
- I want to contribute to a scholarship: Contact a National Committee or a UWC School & College of your choice, or UWC International for Dare to Dream 1.
- I want to support a full scholarship: Contact a National Committee or a UWC School & College of your choice, or UWC International for Dare to Dream 2.
- I want to build a specific programme to support more students: Contact UWC International directly to discuss how you can create lasting impact.
For more information or to get involved, contact us at daretodream@uwcio.uwc.org.