If there’s one thing we know at ScholarMatch, it’s that community is everything. Over the past 14 years, our volunteers, donors, board members, and friends have powered our mission forward, fully believing in the promise of higher education and showing up for first-generation college students, again and again.

One of those champions is our very own board member and friend, Dr. Heather McCarty, who brings passion, brains, and a whole lot of college spirit to our work.

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Heather has been with ScholarMatch since 2022, and her unwavering commitment to supporting first-generation students is palpable in everything she does. As a professor of History and Gender and Women’s Studies at Ohlone College, and co-founder of the Lytton Center for History and the Public Good, she knows firsthand how transformative education can be.

“I truly believe in the transformational nature of higher education, but access to college and the ability to persist remain challenges for many first-generation students. ScholarMatch’s high-touch program model is proven, and the success stories of students are incredible.”

Her extensive experience in higher education, combined with her passion for the community, led her to take things one step further. In December 2024, Heather was elected to the Board of Trustees at City College of San Francisco to help strengthen one of the city’s most vital institutions.

Trivia Night: Heart, Brains, and a Whole Lot of Victory

When our signature fundraiser, Trivia Night, returned in 2024, Heather didn’t just show up; she showed out. As the event’s main sponsor, she generously supported our students by bringing a passionate crew along, ready to play with purpose.

The result was a night filled with laughs, joyful connections, and, unsurprisingly, her team took home the gold—fair and square!

“Heather brought so much joy, spirit, and support to the event,” recalled our Executive Director Karla V. Salazar. “She’s an incredible ambassador for ScholarMatch and truly embodies what it means to lead with both head and heart.”

But for Heather, it wasn’t about the spotlight. It was about showing up for a mission she believes in and sharing it with the people she loves. That’s what makes champions like her so special.

Get Ready for Trivia Night 2025!

If you missed our event last year, don’t worry. This year’s Trivia Night is right around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be another unforgettable evening. Expect college-themed trivia, tasty Mexican food, great company, and of course, fierce (but friendly!) competition.

Trivia Night 2025
Friday, October 3, 2025
6:00 – 10:00 p.m. (PST)
The Cartoon Art Museum
781 Beach St., San Francisco, CA 

Bring your team, sponsor a table, and join us to celebrate first-generation success. Every ticket supports first-gen students on their journey to and through college.

Sponsorships are available now at multiple levels. Learn more at scholarmatch.org/events/trivia-night

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