51±¬ÁÏ

What Are They?

Student Professional Development Funds support 51±¬ÁÏ-Cascades students in accessing conferences, trainings, workshops, and other opportunities that enhance academic, professional, or personal growth. These funds help reduce financial barriers so students can participate in experiences that strengthen their skills and career readiness. 

Students may request up to $300 per academic year, or the full cost of their opportunity if it is below that amount.

Eligibility

Funding may be used for non-credit professional development opportunities. The following are not eligible for funding:

• Credit-bearing courses
• Activities or materials required for degree completion
• Job search expenses
• Graduate school application costs

Questions about degree-related expenses should be directed to the Office of Financial Aid. 

Students may receive Student Professional Development Funds once per academic year. Students may reapply if they were not funded or did not use previously awarded funds.

Service To Campus Requirement

All students who receive funding must complete a Service to Campus. This requirement helps share learning and experiences with the 51±¬ÁÏ-Cascades community. 

Funding is not released until the Service to Campus requirement is complete.

Students may choose one of the following: 

Written Reflection

• 1 page
• MLA format
• Describe your experience and whether you would recommend it to other students
• Due within two weeks after your event
• Submitted to studentfees@osucascades.edu

Presentation to SFC

• A brief presentation during a scheduled SFC meeting
• Covers your experience and key takeaways
• Due within two weeks after your event

*Note that SFC will provide the meeting date and presentation details.

Alternate Option (Case-by-Case)

Students may request an alternative Service to Campus project. These must be approved in advance. 

All submissions are posted on the SFC website to help future students explore professional development opportunities.

Application Process

To request funding, students must complete the . Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis during all academic terms and voted on during weekly SFC meetings.

Application Timeline: 

• Submit your application at least two weeks before the SFC meeting immediately preceding your event
• SFC will provide a decision within one SFC meeting of receiving the application, barring unusual circumstances
• Students may request to present their proposal at a public SFC meeting by emailing studentfees@osucascades.edu at least three days in advance

Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now open.