Our Story
In 2005, Steve Simon was invited by his family to establish a second branch of the Simon Scholars Program in New Mexico. Originally founded in 2003 by The Ronald Simon Family Foundation, the Simon Scholars Program was a concept still evolving. In Santa Fe, a program that began as a small scholarship fund for charter students quickly grew into something more powerful.
Steve realized that while financial support is essential, it isn’t enough. Students also need guidance, community, and the confidence that comes from knowing they’re not alone in pursuing their dreams. With input from seasoned, local educators, he helped shape a program built around relationships, mentorship, and long-term support.
Soon the Program expanded to not only provide underserved students with much needed financial, academic, and college guidance support, but also to nurture a strong sense of community and belonging among our scholars.
Today, the New Mexico Simon Scholars Program serves more than 40 under-represented high school students and up to 100 college Scholars each year – plus a growing community of alumni who continue to inspire and guide the next generation.
These students share the qualities of being academically driven, bright, and resilient, with many coming from first-generation, under-resourced families.
The New Mexico Simon Scholars Program is designed to provide them with the skills and resources needed to thrive and grow – both in high school and college. Our mission is simple: to help young people turn their potential into purpose, growth and success.
A Mission of Opportunity
The New Mexico Simon Scholars Program creates opportunities for students to know themselves more deeply – as individuals, as members of their families, and as contributors to their communities – while supporting them in earning a college degree. For over 20 years, with each new graduating class, we’ve increasingly brought that mission to life. Our students’ success stories are both inspiring and rewarding.
Our Threefold Philosophy
We believe that education changes lives. By helping traditionally underrepresented New Mexican students, many of whom are first-generation, we open doors not only for them – but for their families and communities as well.
Our philosophy is rooted in three core values: community, stories, and a broad vision of success.
We don’t define success just by grades or test scores, but by the personal growth, confidence, and fulfillment our Scholars experience as they pursue their goals and aspirations toward a richer and more rewarding life.
The Power of Relationships
Relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that real growth happens when people feel seen, heard, and supported.
Our program is built on trust and mutual respect. We listen carefully, offer guidance when needed, and learn alongside our Scholars. We see each Scholar as a whole person – with unique experiences, challenges, and dreams – not just as a student or “investment.”
This approach creates strong, lasting connections that often continue long after college graduation.
Building a Community of Character
Each year, we welcome a new group of Scholars who reflect the diversity and spirit of New Mexico. We look beyond grades and test scores, seeking students who show optimism, resilience, and open-mindedness – qualities that predict long-term success and leadership.
Our Scholars share a belief in the power of education, a commitment to giving back, and a sense of hope for the future. Together, they form a community that feels less like a program – and more like a family.
Honoring Every Story
Every Simon Scholar and every person has a story worth telling. We create safe, supportive spaces where those stories can be shared and celebrated.
Through reflection and conversation, Scholars come to understand how their experiences, both joyful and challenging, have shaped who they are. We help them see that their journeys bring strength, wisdom, and purpose. Over time, these stories evolve, deepening their understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Redefining Success
At New Mexico Simon Scholars, we measure success in many ways. We’re very proud when our Scholars graduate from high school, attend excellent colleges, and complete their degrees.
We also believe success means more than milestones – it’s about creating and enjoying a meaningful life.
A life filled with purpose, with belonging, and self-awareness. When our Scholars use their education to uplift others, build fulfilling relationships and careers, and contribute to their communities, we know we’ve succeeded.
And that’s the kind of true success we celebrate.