File photo.

Future Fresno State students who are part of the Bulldog Bound program — a joint partnership between the university and The Foundation for Fresno Unified Students — will be receiving a boost in funding after the university announced that it will provide $25,000 in matching scholarship funds for the program.

A total of 25 Bulldog Bound students who received scholarships of $1,000 will receive the matching award.

Matching funds will be applied to students’ annual enrollment tuition, totalling $500 each semester.

“We’re thrilled that the matching scholarship dollars from Fresno State for our Bulldog Bound students will continue to bridge the financial gap and empower our students to achieve their college dreams,” said Fresno Unified Superintendent Misty Her.

The program, which kicked off in 2009, has provided over $2 million in scholarships to graduating seniors. This year, 333 graduates will receive a total of $441,200, representing the largest amount in Fresno Unified history.

“At Fresno State, we are committed to making higher education more accessible and affordable for every student in our region,” said Dr. Saul Jiménez-Sandoval, president of Fresno State. “Through this partnership with Fresno Unified and The Foundation for Fresno Unified Students, we are not only opening doors — we are building pathways that empower students to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the Central Valley’s future.”

The university will charge $3,225 for the fall semester according to the Fresno State website.