The mission of The Oliver Scholars Program is to promote social equity by introducing extraordinary New York City students of African American and Latino descent and their families into The Oliver Scholars Program... a community of supportive educators, sponsors and peers who champion them on a transformative lifetime journey:

• Pursuing excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service;
• Providing Oliver Scholars the access and opportunity to work for the benefits of an independent school education and the college education that follows.

The Oliver Scholars Program was founded by John Hoffman in 1984 in honor of the late Dr. Albert G. Oliver, a distinguished educator and activist within the New York City public school system who devoted his life to the children of NYC.

The Oliver Scholars Program began with a vision of providing New York City's African American and Latino youth greater access to the education opportunities available in the Independent School arena to offset the inadequate education provided in the public schools and to enhance their opportunity to fulfill their academic and career potential. The core program was one of academic and social support through the admissions process, followed up by continued support in high school.

Based on a very successful track record of placements and college admissions, we know that providing access to opportunity, preparation and support are the keystones of a successful college and career pipeline program like ours.