<p>GAINESVILLE, Fla. Two of college sports most recognized head coaches are taking the lead to help fund a University of Florida program that provides financial support for first-generation, financially disadvantaged students working toward a bachelors degree.</p>
<p>UF head mens basketball coach Billy Donovan and UF head football coach Urban Meyer will lead a drive to raise $50 million for UFs Florida Opportunity Scholars program.</p>
<p>The program was created by UF President Bernie Machen in 2006 to provide financial assistance to Florida students admitted to UF whose annual household income falls below $40,000 and whose parents dont hold bachelors degrees. This year, 1,100 UF students are being served through the program. Next year, a total of 1,600 students are projected if funding becomes available.</p>
<p>This is a program of which Im particularly proud. Its all about opportunity, Machen said. The annual cost to keep it funded has reached $5.7 million and that will only go higher next year. Were making an appeal for private support, and having Billy and Urban involved can only mean success for our efforts.</p>
<p>Donovan and Meyer have agreed to co-chair the fundraising initiative because of their personal interests in putting academics first. They will serve as ambassadors to encourage not only the fan base for UF athletics to get behind the program, but also the many others who share their priorities toward academics.</p>
<p>I see firsthand the need to make sure that kids with the qualifications to attend the University of Florida get that chance regardless of their financial means, Donovan said. You dont tell a student Sorry we cant help you when theyre willing to make it in the classroom and have an opportunity to take on life with a UF degree.</p>
<p>Meyer has long been a proponent of giving eligible students the chance they need to succeed at UF.</p>
<p>This is a champion-caliber university both academically and athletically, Meyer said. If we can make it happen for our Florida Opportunity Scholars, then we all win.</p>
<p>The program provides a full scholarship package each year for enrollment in a baccalaureate degree program, as well as providing funds for books and room and board. Currently 1,100 students are receiving awards, with total program costs for the year estimated at $5.7 million.</p>
<p>Once eligible Florida Opportunity Scholar students are admitted and identified through UFs Student Affairs office, they must maintain satisfactory academic progress and be enrolled for at least 12 credit hours per semester.</p>