By Cindy Kranz
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Some high school students may never have considered college an option because it was out of their financial reach. But now, two new programs at the University of Cincinnati are building on student dreams of a higher education.

James D. Williams, UC's director of enrollment services, on Wednesday announced the Cincinnati Pride Grants to benefit new graduates of Cincinnati Public Schools.

A separate program will provide 200 new dean's scholarships for 71 different UC programs.

Any 2003 CPS graduate, who is eligible for the federal Pell Grant Program, is eligible for the Cincinnati Pride Grant - a UC gift of remaining tuition and fees, as well as an additional $800 for books.

Pell Grants are awarded to students who have demonstrated an exceptional financial need for college financial aid. UC estimates about 75 percent of CPS students are eligible for Pell Grants.

The Cincinnati Pride Grant is renewable each year, provided the student remains in the Pell Grant Program and stays in good academic standing in his or her college.

"The goal of financial aid is to provide access to a college education to all students who have the drive and determination to succeed," Williams said. "We believe that a college education is an essential part of the American dream. That dream has been threatened in recent years with rising costs, federal and state assistance that has not kept pace and a struggling economy."

CPS Superintendent Alton Frailey said: "Our high school students know that more and more jobs in today's economy require post-secondary degrees, but, unfortunately, access to a college education is an issue for many families.

"The new UC Cincinnati Pride Grant and Dean's Scholarships are tremendous opportunities for our students to overcome the financial barriers that may stand in the way of higher education." The dean's scholarships, open to all high school students, include programs where there is a demand for future professionals - fields such as education, science, math and engineering. Students must meet academic requirements.

For information on applications and deadlines, call 556-2420.

E-mail ckranz@enquirer.com