The 2023 U.S. News & World Report once again ranked UC Riverside No. 2 in social mobility among all private and public universities. One of the ways UCR elevates its low-income graduates to a higher standard of living is by offering equitable access to quality education, something made possible by student-focused programs such as Loan2Learn.

The Loan2Learn program is one of the most highly-requested student services from Information Technology Solutions. Through the program, students in need can loan academic technology resources on a quarterly basis and at no additional cost so that they can successfully complete their coursework and obtain their degree from UCR.

Since it was launched in 2020, Loan2Learn has served more than 2,000 students and counting, highlighting the need for equitable access to learning devices and technology for all Highlanders.

UCR alumnus Michael, a graduate of Mathematics for Secondary School Teachers, shared how Loan2Learn helped him fulfill his academic work:

“When my laptop stopped working in the middle of winter 2022, I was panicking, thinking I had to buy a new one. I was worried about how I would be able to purchase a laptop that I hadn't saved and prepared for yet.

The Loan2Learn program has had the BEST, BIGGEST, and most POSITIVE impact on my ability to study at UCR and graduate! This program has allowed me to not worry about my finances and focus on my studies instead. I really appreciate this program and everyone who runs it!”

Keeping an Important Program Alive

Learning devices such as laptops, tablets, and headsets require upgrades and maintenance, which means the Loan2Learn program needs considerable funding to sustain it. The program was initially supported by emergency one-time funding, however, this has since been depleted.

Lily Barger, Director of ITS Campus Support Services, underscored Loan2Learn’s value and how vital funding is to keep the program going:

“Even though funding for this program was discontinued, the need is still there, especially in our hybrid teaching environment. The reality is that many students simply cannot afford to purchase a device on their own. To keep the Loan2Learn program going, ITS is seeking donor support.”

As a way to meet the program’s financial needs, ITS started a fundraising effort for Loan2Learn. The goal is to raise $3,000 to transform the program into a sustainable service so it can become a permanent offering for eligible students.

The amount collected through the fundraising campaign will be used to:

• Purchase brand-new laptops, tablets, and headsets
• Extend device warranties to cover future repairs
• Repair broken devices, particularly those that are no longer covered by warranty

One hundred percent (100%) of campaign proceeds will go toward the Loan2Learn program to ensure these critical academic resources remain available to current and future Highlanders.

A Gift That Keeps on Giving

“Donating to the Loan2Learn program is one of the more direct ways that you can help Highlanders succeed,” Lily said. “Many of our students are commuters who are juggling school and work in an effort to make better lives for themselves and their families. This program gives struggling students access to the resources they need to be successful.”

Every dollar you donate will help us provide essential technology resources to students who cannot afford them so that they can succeed in their studies. It will also ensure that all learning devices are properly maintained to serve as many students as possible.

Visit the Loan2Learn Crowdfunding page to learn more about the fundraising campaign and how you can help. Thank you for your generous support!