‘Big Bang Theory’ Launches Scholarship Fund for STEM Students
LOS ANGELES, May 30 (UPI) — Undergraduate students at UCLA pursuing degrees in math, science, engineering and technology can now get monetary help from those atBig Bang Theory.
The CBS sitcom’s cast and crew have come together under co-creator Chuck Lorre to raise over $4 million in funds for The Big Bang Theory Scholarship Endowment launched by Lorre’s Family Foundation and 50 people associated with the show.
Among the donators are the comedy’s stars Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch.
“We have all been given a gift with The Big Bang Theory, a show that’s not only based in the scientific community, but also enthusiastically supported by that same community — this is our opportunity to give back,” said co-creator and executive producer Lorre in a statement from Warner Bros.. “In that spirit, our Big Bang family has made a meaningful contribution, and together, we’ll share in the support of these future scholars, scientists and leaders.”
Starting in the fall of the coming school year, 20 students will be chosen to receive financial assistance from the first-ever endowment funded by a television show. Those admitted into UCLA for academic merit that show signs of financial need will be considered to earn Big Bang Theory scholar status. Winners will be announced from the show’s set alongside the cast.
“At UCLA, we pride ourselves on providing opportunities for students from all economic backgrounds,” said university Chancellor, Gene Block. “UCLA attracts the very best students from around the world, and admission is very competitive. We are grateful forThe Big Bang Theory Scholarship Endowment, whose contributors agree with us that economic standing should not hinder a deserving student’s shot at a degree from a university of UCLA’s caliber.”
The Big Bang Theory is also scheduled to start its ninth season in the fall. The show follows the lives of a group of physicists and biologists and will air Mondays at 8/7c on CBS.
