UCSD - University of California - San Diego

06/09/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/09/2026 14:40

Record-Breaking Fundraiser Supports The Preuss School UC San Diego

Published Date

June 09, 2026

Article Content

Jaya Carter, a graduating senior from The Preuss School UC San Diego, dreams of one day becoming a women's health provider, working to address system equity gaps.

For her mother, Abena Hasten, who had Jaya's oldest sibling at 16, Carter's dream feels attainable because of The Preuss School.

Carter joined the school as a sixth-grader. Since then, she has distinguished herself as a leader and scholar, serving in multiple leadership positions. She also took seven Advanced Placement classes and earned a place on the honor roll each of her three eligible years. Alongside her older sister, Carter will be the first generation in her family to attend college. She was accepted to more than 50 universities and plans to attend UCLA in the fall.

Hasten, a surgery scheduling support specialist with Women's Health Services at UC San Diego Health, credits the School's academic rigour and wraparound services - where every scholar is seen and known for who they are - with her daughter's success.

Photo by Katie Gardner

A 2026 California Distinguished School, The Preuss School was recognized for excellence in supporting student success and narrowing academic gaps, specifically in two categories: Achievement Gap Closers and Beacons of Opportunity. Nearly 100% of Preuss graduates, first-generation scholars from income-stressed families, advance to higher education.

The generous support of donors and friends at the 2026 Preuss Promise, an annual signature event and fundraiser benefiting The Preuss School, keeps that beacon of opportunity shining bright.

This year, an incredible $709,500 was raised, providing more young scholars with access to first-class, high-quality educational opportunities, regardless of their background, so they can achieve higher education, uplift their families and inspire their communities.

Through the generosity of supporters, The Preuss School empowers students to reach their full potential and become agents of change in their communities.

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