The fall term at Portland State University just wrapped, which means the first grants of the 2025-2026 Schnitzer Cares year have been awarded!

It was a decision-making sprint for the grantmaking committee, facilitated by returning advisor Suzanne Savaria. This Senior Capstone course is our only college-level partnership and the only group on its own unique timeline. 

In total, fifty-one nonprofits applied to the group's mission statement, which reads:

The students of Portland State University’s Philanthropy for Arts and Culture class, in partnership with The Schnitzer CARE Foundation, are seeking to provide grants to nonprofit organizations throughout Oregon. Organizations should provide opportunities for creative self-exploration and expression within the sphere of arts and culture. We believe that accessible arts and cultural experiences help foster deeper levels of understanding, creativity, and empathy that are needed in today's tumultuous social climate. We value supporting artists, audiences, and participants from underserved communities and marginalized identities.

Four grants were awarded at a Grant Awards Ceremony luncheon on Wednesday, December 13th at the Schnitzer Properties home office - 

PSU students awards $25,000 of Arts & Culture Grants