The Nick Lee '10 Financial Aid Fund

Nicholas "Nick" Lee '10 (1987 – 2019) was a true believer in the four cornerstones of Occidental’s mission – excellence, equity, community, and service. Nick’s personal maxim of "be the change" was developed during his formative years as a Tiger. At Oxy, Nick studied Economics and ran Project Play, connecting Oxy students with youth at a local group home, and providing friendship and mentorship. Nick had an uncanny talent for connecting with others and used this gift during his time with Telefund and in his successful career in the tech industry. After graduation, he continued to strengthen the Oxy community, leading alumni events in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Nick passed away in August 2019. The Lee Family, friends of Nick, Class of 2010, and Oxy community raised $100,000 to establish the Nick Lee '10 Endowed Financial Aid Fund at Occidental College, helping more students "be the change" and discover their passions at Oxy. Proceeds from the Nick Lee '10 Endowed Financial Aid Fund will support critical scholarship assistance for Oxy students in perpetuity.

The Lee Family and friends of Nick are now seeking to raise an additional $10,000 to name a bench in Nick’s name and have a physical memorial for him on campus. As an incentive to reach this goal, the Lee Family is matching 150% of every dollar donated, up to $4,000, made through November 15, 2024. Any funds raised beyond the $10,000 for the bench will go towards building the size of the financial aid endowment.

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