A good chunk of the Big Bang Theory gang works at Caltech. But in real life, co-creator Chuck Lorre and a number of the cast have just endowed a generous STEM scholarship fund to rival school UCLA. This deserves a “Bazinga!” (Imagine it in Sheldon Cooper’s one-of-a-kind, smart-aleck voice).
The fund, appropriately named ‘The Big Bang Theory Scholarship Endowment,’ has raised more than $4 million thus far. The initial donation was made possible thanks to the Chuck Lorre Foundation, along with 50 members of the hit TV Show’s production – including stars Jim Parsons (Sheldon), Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting (Penny), Johnny Galecki (Leonard), Simon Helberg (Howard) and Mayim Bialik (Amy), who happens to be a UCLA alumna.
According to the university, 20 students will receive the new scholarship for the upcoming 2015-16 academic year. It targets low-income students who have been admitted to UCLA STEM programs based on academic merit, but require financial assistance in order to complete their studies at the public research university.
“At UCLA, we pride ourselves on providing opportunities for students from all economic backgrounds,” said UCLA Chancellor Gene Block. “UCLA attracts the very best students from around the world, and admission is very competitive. We are grateful for The Big Bang Theory Scholarship Endowment, whose contributors agree with us that economic standing should not hinder a deserving student’s shot at a degree from a university of UCLA’s caliber.”
Lorre added: “We have all been given a gift with ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ a show that’s not only based in the scientific community, but also enthusiastically supported by that same community. This is our opportunity to give back. In that spirit, our Big Bang family has made a meaningful contribution, and together we’ll share in the support of these future scholars, scientists and leaders.”
For more information about the scholarship fund, visit UCLA’s website.