ASU guarantees pathways to admission for LA-area students impacted by wildfires
ASU's two Los Angeles locations — California Center Broadway (pictured) and California Center Grand — remained open during the recent LA wildfires. Photo by Alex Cabrera/Arizona State University
Thousands of Los Angeles-area high school students whose families have been uprooted by the devastating recent wildfires can rest a little easier about at least one thing during this difficult time — college admissions — thanks to a new effort from community partner Arizona State University.
Last month, ASU President Michael Crow invited Los Angeles-area education leaders to share a new resource with their high school students who have been affected by the fires and may be worried about being diverted from their paths toward college. Families can now visit asu.edu/SupportLA to learn about guaranteed pathways to admission at ASU, as well as one-on-one help for meeting application deadlines and managing educational costs.
ASU offers in-person degree programs in Los Angeles and Arizona, as well as hundreds of ASU Online degree programs.
ASU support for Los Angeles
Learn more about resources for current and prospective students.
While ASU is the first higher education institution to offer this customized support expressly for families affected by the LA fires, the effort is not new for the university. Past tragic events such as hurricanes and the 2023 wildfire in Maui have led to similar efforts from ASU to help ease the path to college for prospective students.
“ASU has been inspired by the LA-area families who are doing all they can to recover and move forward,” President Michael Crow said. “It’s part of our university charter to help the communities we serve, and this is one small way that we can assist Angelenos. Everyone deserves access to high-quality education no matter their circumstances.”
For students like Palisades Charter High School junior Maria Knierim, 17, whose home was destroyed by the wildfires, it is a tremendous relief just knowing that ASU is a welcoming option for affected students like her.
Her high school remains closed due to fire damage, but Maria is focusing on her upcoming ACT test and her love of playing soccer. She had been stressed about how her path to college might be set back — until she heard about the ASU effort, said her father, Sean. Regardless of where Maria and other affected students ultimately go to college, ASU’s approach offers reassurance.
“The number of kids that this is going to make a difference for is amazing,” he said. “Just to know they have that pathway and support and they’re going to be OK.”
In addition to the college-related resources available at asu.edu/SupportLA, families will find information about ASU Prep Digital, Axio and Universal Learner Courses, which are all high-quality, online content solutions for high school students. ASU's digital learning library is also available on ASU for You, with additional offerings for parents, educators, professionals, those 50 and older, and K–12 students, many at no cost.
LA community voices in support
Alberto M. Carvalho, superintendent, Los Angeles Unified School District: “Los Angeles Unified is committed to supporting our students through every challenge they face. The devastating impact of the wildfires has shaken so many families, and this incredible ASU initiative provides critical relief, giving students peace of mind when it comes to their futures. This streamlined pathway to college is a lifeline for many.”
Debra Duardo, superintendent, Los Angeles County Office of Education: “The recent wildfires have left many students and families facing immense hardship, and we are grateful to ASU for stepping up with this critical initiative. This dedication to supporting college-bound students with streamlined admission pathways offers a beacon of hope during a very difficult time. It ensures that, despite challenges they may face, our students can still pursue their dreams of higher education.”
Elizabeth Blanco, superintendent, Pasadena Unified School District: “The recent wildfires have deeply affected many Pasadena Unified families and students. This opportunity highlights ASU’s commitment to supporting our children as they heal and move forward. We are incredibly grateful for this partnership, which provides hope and a pathway to a brighter future.”
Sarah Shulkind, president, California Association of Independent Schools: “The wildfires have left many families facing unimaginable challenges, and ASU’s dedication to providing a clear and supportive path to college for these students is deeply inspiring. This initiative offers hope and stability to those who need it most during this time of uncertainty.”
Paul Escala, senior director and superintendent of schools, Archdiocese of Los Angeles: “Our schools have been hit hard by the fires, and our students need all the support they can get to stay on track with their academic futures. ASU’s proactive approach in offering customized help for college admissions provides much-needed relief for our students, showing them that their dreams are still within reach.”
Pamela Magee, executive director/principal, Palisades Charter High School: “Many of our students have lost their homes, and their futures have been shaken by the devastation of the fires. ASU’s outreach to provide tailored support in the college admissions process is a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, there are pathways forward. This support is crucial for our students as they navigate their next steps.”
Eric Barba, principal, Pasadena High School: “In times of crisis, it is vital for students to know that their dreams are not out of reach. ASU’s initiative to offer customized support for college-bound students affected by the wildfires is a tremendous resource, giving our students hope and a clear pathway to continue their education without added stress.”
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