The mission of Palmer Scholars is to support underrepresented Pierce County students of color to overcome financial, cultural, and social barriers in their pursuit of higher education. At Palmer Scholars we seek to identify talented young men and women of color from Pierce County who have a desire to receive a post-high school education but lack the financial support to do so. While we select students based on a wide array of criteria, including GPA, test scores, involvement, etc., what we really focus on is the character of each individual applicant. While our Scholars are as diverse as the community they represent, what they have in common is determination, a willingness to rise above their individual situations and make something of themselves, and the resilience and grit to not let anything take them off of their path. All of our Scholars, through the combined efforts of Palmer Scholars Board of Directors and staff, our generous donors and volunteers, mentors, and community support, will have the opportunity to assist in the improvement and quality of life for their community through attaining a post-high school education!