Jordan Jensen, a Ridgeview High student, overcomes challenges and receives the Beat the Odds scholarship.

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Stand for Children Oregon is excited to announce Jordan Jensen of Ridgeview High School as the recipient of the Beat the Odds Scholarship. This scholarship awards $5,000 annually for four years to support exceptional students who have overcome significant challenges while demonstrating an unwavering commitment to their education.

Jordan is one of only eight Oregon students to receive the 2025 scholarship, reflecting his extraordinary resilience and commitment to achieving his goals despite a difficult upbringing.

Jordan’s journey was marked by significant challenges. Through all this, he has become a warrior, using his past as motivation to strive for a better future. His determination contributed to his academic success and leadership on the field as a collegiate football player and wrestler.

“I have faced many challenges, but I don’t let them define me,” Jordan said. “Instead, I use my experiences to motivate myself to do better and help others who may be going through a similar situation.”

Planning to attend Clackamas Community College and pursue a degree in business and law, Jordan hopes to become a corporate lawyer. He understands the importance of education and the power of positive role models because he has experienced firsthand the influence of a supportive community. She hopes to give back by sharing her story and helping others who may feel alone in their struggles.

ABOUT THE OREGON CHILDREN’S STAND: Stand for Children is a unique catalyst for educational equity and racial justice to create a better future for us all. We are building a future where every child in Oregon has the opportunity to succeed. Our ongoing support and research-based initiatives have significantly improved educational equity and racial justice across the state.

In 2016, our team and our community of over 20,000 supporters passed the exam Measure 98: High School Success which provides $150 million annually for research-oriented internships for high school students. In 2023 we passed Early Literacy Success Initiative which provides $90 million annually to support research-appropriate practices for our youngest readers. That means our six-person team has delivered more than $210 million annually in targeted investments that make a significant difference for children. You can read more about the impact of these political investments Here.

ABOUT THE RENESANS FOUNDATION: The mission of the Renaissance Scholars Program (RSP) is to provide renewable scholarships and support to talented students with significant financial need who will be the first in their family to earn a bachelor’s degree. The scholarship provides a maximum of $5,000 per year for tuition and fees, housing, or books and supplies.

RSP provides recipients with additional support through scientific events, a growing library of online resources, and other ongoing programs.

ABOUT THE BEAT THE ODDS SCHOLARSHIP: The Beat the Odds Scholarship was established in 2007 as a partnership between Stand for Children Oregon and The Renaissance Foundation to support Oregon students who succeed despite hardships. The scholarship is guaranteed by the Renaissance Foundation. To be eligible for the $5,000 per year scholarship, applicants must reside in Oregon, be a first-generation college student and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.