Story #114: Priscilla Chan and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative

Nov 20

Priscilla Chan ‘07 was a volunteer for PBHA’s Franklin Afterschool Enrichment program (FASE). As a student on financial aid, she understood the barriers to public service low income students face as she volunteered in Boston’s Franklin Hill and Franklin Field neighborhoods. Chan served through PBHA’s existing Stride program, which supported low income students through service work funding. Chan shared:

“The opportunity to work with the kids of Franklin Hill inspired me to pursue a career dedicated to serving children and families as a pediatrician and educator…It’s my hope this gift will give many more students the ability to choose service that will inspire their passion and build their skills as the next generation of public service leaders” - Priscilla Chan

Through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI), Priscilla has continued her support for low income students, funding opportunities that remove financial barriers to public service. The Priscilla Chan Summer Service Award and the Chan Stride Service Program are key components of this effort, providing funding for up to 2,300 students over 15 years. These initiatives cover the summer earnings contribution for students who participate in immersive service experiences, such as the Summer Urban Program (SUP), and offers scholarships, mentorship, and leadership development for undergraduates involved in PBHA’s extensive community programs, which currently serve more than 6,000 residents in the Greater Boston area. Priscilla’s generosity ensures that more students can follow in her footsteps, choosing service over traditional work-study and making a lasting impact on their communities.

Read more from the Harvard Gazette here.