Schefers Start the Servant Leadership
Loan Program
President Laban with Barb and Elmer Schefers during a 2019 visit to Minnesota.
“A loan made for an education can be one of the best investments you can make, if done wisely.” ELMER SCHEFERS
Elmer and Barb Schefers know loan can make in a life. El received a small student loan which enabled him to complete his university business degree. With this degree, El spent over 40 years working in a successful insurance business while Barb was a full-time care giver to their four children.
The Schefers want to give this same opportunity to Daystar University students. In 2020, they gave generous gifts totaling $250,000 to begin the Schefers Servant Leadership Loan Program. This program provides an opportunity for U.S. donors to support Daystar University students who would otherwise not be able to attend. Over the years, the Schefers have supported over 40 students and started this program with the hopes it would grow over time to be their legacy of assisting students for years to come.
The demand for higher education has increased tremendously in Kenya. Though Daystar’s annual tuition of $6,000 is low compared to U.S. standards, 300-400 bright young people are turned away every year because they cannot raise the tuition. Government grants, loans, and scholarships are not readily available in Kenya.
The Schefers Servant Leadership Loan Program stipulates that the original $250,000 will only be available for student loans when matched, with the goal of reaching an initial $500,000. All interest from the loans will go back into the fund to support more students over time.
The maximum amount awarded is $900 per semester.
Loans will be available to qualified Daystar students who are:
• Are close to completing their academic program.
• Exhibit a strong Christian character.
• Have demonstrated a financial need.
• Possess above average academic achievement (CUM GPA of at least 3.0 for postgraduate students and 2.50 for undergraduate students).
• Demonstrate mature behavior in all areas of university life.
If you are interested in more information about this program please send an email to Alan Cooke at Alan@DaystarUS.org.