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Otero College and Otero County Partner to Launch $150,000 Annual Scholarship Program Through COSI Achieve Grant


Description: From L-R Tim Knabenshue, Otero County Commissioner District 2; Kim Zant, Otero College President; Dillon Martin, Otero College Foundation Director; Amy White-Tanabe, Otero County Administrator; Rob Oquist, Otero County Commissioner District 1.

Otero College and Otero County Partner to Launch $150,000 Annual Scholarship Program Through COSI Achieve Grant

La Junta, CO – The Otero College Foundation is thrilled to announce its partnership with Otero County in the application for the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative (COSI) Achieve Program, a significant step towards enhancing educational access and success for students in our community. This collaborative effort underscores both Otero County’s commitment to education and Otero College’s dedication to empowering students through financial support and guidance.

The COSI Achieve Program will provide approximately $150,000 in scholarships to 50 eligible students annually starting in the fall of 2026. Students will need to apply through the college’s scholarship application located at https://otero.edu/pay-for-college/scholarships-grants/.  This five-year initiative will not only alleviate financial barriers but also foster academic achievement and career readiness among our community, ensuring that they have the necessary resources and support to achieve their educational goals.

To access the funds a match has to be received. The Otero College Foundation is budgeting approximately $75,000 from its allocation annually for scholarships. Otero College is eligible for a reduced match, which means a match of approximately $37,500 was needed. Otero County has agreed to offer this match in an effort to help our local Otero County community further their education while receiving financial support. This investment of $37,500 allows the Otero College Foundation to offer a total of $150,000 in new scholarships annually.

“This partnership represents a fantastic opportunity for our students and our community,” said Rob Oquist, Otero County Commissioner. “By working together with Otero College, we are demonstrating our commitment to creating pathways for success in higher education. The COSI Achieve Program will empower students to pursue their dreams, ultimately benefiting our community as a whole.”

The funding from the COSI Achieve Program will be used to provide scholarships, mentorship, academic advising, and support services that address the unique challenges our students face.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with Otero County to apply for this critical funding,” said Dillon Martin, Otero College Foundation Director. “The COSI Achieve Program aligns perfectly with our mission to serve our students and provide them with the resources necessary to thrive both in college and beyond. Investing in our student’s futures is an investment in the future of our community.”

The application for the COSI Achieve Program will be submitted soon, and Otero County and Otero College are optimistic about the potential impact this funding can have on local students and their families. Together, they are dedicated to fostering an environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their economic background.

For more information, please contact Dillon Martin Otero College Foundation Director at Dillon.Martin@otero.edu.