{ "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1.1", "user_comment": "This feed allows you to read the posts from this site in any feed reader that supports the JSON Feed format. To add this feed to your reader, copy the following URL -- https://www.albertbakerfund.org/category/homepage-featured/feed/json -- and add it your reader.", "next_url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/category/homepage-featured/feed/json?paged=2", "home_page_url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/category/homepage-featured", "feed_url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/category/homepage-featured/feed/json", "language": "en-US", "title": "Homepage Featured – The Albert Baker Fund", "description": "Educating Christian Scientists, Blessing the World", "icon": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2017/03/cropped-ABF_logo_sq.png", "items": [ { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12229", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/12/02/invest-in-the-education-of-christian-science-students/", "title": "Invest in the Education of Christian Science Students!", "content_html": "

Dear friends,

\n

We at The Albert Baker Fund love supporting our scholarship recipients, and contributions from our generous donors\u00a0 make it all possible.\u00a0 We couldn\u2019t be more grateful!\u00a0 We\u2019ve been able to bless 407 students this year, here in the United States, as well as in Europe, Canada, the Philippines, and eleven countries in Africa.\u00a0 Your generosity is blessing the world through our dear scholarship recipients!

\n

I suspect you might have a good idea of how much it means to our students of Christian Science to receive a scholarship that allows them to further their education. But we thought you\u2019d enjoy hearing straight from the students:

\n

\u201cI truly cannot put into words how grateful I am for The Albert Baker Fund\u2019s support over these last four years. My college experience would not have been possible for me or my family without your continued support and encouragement.\u201d

\n

\u201cI appreciate all of ABF\u2019s work not just in my own life but in everyone else\u2019s who you all have helped. It means a lot. You are a great organization.\u201d
\n\"ABF

\n
\n

ABF scholarship recipients gathered at The Mother Church at Annual Meeting, June 2025.

\n
\n

\u201cI am deeply grateful for The Albert Baker Fund\u2019s support, which allowed me to pursue my graduate degree while balancing my commitments as a faculty member, study abroad director, and parent.\u00a0 This journey has reinforced my commitment to education as a force for good, and I look forward to paying forward the generosity I have received by mentoring and supporting future scholars in their own transformative learning paths.\u201d\u00a0

\n

And from a Christian Science nursing student in Africa: \u00a0\u201cYour financial aid has relieved a significant burden off my shoulders, enabling me to focus on my academics without excess financial strain.\u00a0 I assure you that I am making the utmost use of this aid and striving towards academic excellence.\u00a0 I truly appreciate your trust and confidence in me.\u201d

\n

Click here to Invest in the Education of Christian Science Students!

\n

These are just a few examples of the gratitude from the very students you help support.\u00a0 We are so grateful to you for being the foundation of our efforts to invest in the education of Christian Science students.

\n

Thank you for your essential role in helping us fulfill our mission!

\n

Gratefully,

\n

\"Sue

\n

Sue Ellen Coughtry\u00a0l\u00a0Chief Advancement Officer

\n

The Albert Baker Fund
\n111 Woodmere Road, Suite 210
\nFolsom, CA 95630
\nOffice: 916.594.9513
\nsueellen.coughtry@albertbakerfund.org

\n", "content_text": "Dear friends,\nWe at The Albert Baker Fund love supporting our scholarship recipients, and contributions from our generous donors\u00a0 make it all possible.\u00a0 We couldn\u2019t be more grateful!\u00a0 We\u2019ve been able to bless 407 students this year, here in the United States, as well as in Europe, Canada, the Philippines, and eleven countries in Africa.\u00a0 Your generosity is blessing the world through our dear scholarship recipients!\nI suspect you might have a good idea of how much it means to our students of Christian Science to receive a scholarship that allows them to further their education. But we thought you\u2019d enjoy hearing straight from the students:\n\u201cI truly cannot put into words how grateful I am for The Albert Baker Fund\u2019s support over these last four years. My college experience would not have been possible for me or my family without your continued support and encouragement.\u201d\n\u201cI appreciate all of ABF\u2019s work not just in my own life but in everyone else\u2019s who you all have helped. It means a lot. You are a great organization.\u201d\n\n\nABF scholarship recipients gathered at The Mother Church at Annual Meeting, June 2025.\n\n\u201cI am deeply grateful for The Albert Baker Fund\u2019s support, which allowed me to pursue my graduate degree while balancing my commitments as a faculty member, study abroad director, and parent.\u00a0 This journey has reinforced my commitment to education as a force for good, and I look forward to paying forward the generosity I have received by mentoring and supporting future scholars in their own transformative learning paths.\u201d\u00a0\nAnd from a Christian Science nursing student in Africa: \u00a0\u201cYour financial aid has relieved a significant burden off my shoulders, enabling me to focus on my academics without excess financial strain.\u00a0 I assure you that I am making the utmost use of this aid and striving towards academic excellence.\u00a0 I truly appreciate your trust and confidence in me.\u201d\nClick here to Invest in the Education of Christian Science Students!\nThese are just a few examples of the gratitude from the very students you help support.\u00a0 We are so grateful to you for being the foundation of our efforts to invest in the education of Christian Science students.\nThank you for your essential role in helping us fulfill our mission!\nGratefully,\n\nSue Ellen Coughtry\u00a0l\u00a0Chief Advancement Officer\nThe Albert Baker Fund\n111 Woodmere Road, Suite 210\nFolsom, CA 95630\nOffice: 916.594.9513\nsueellen.coughtry@albertbakerfund.org", "date_published": "2025-12-02T12:23:32-08:00", "date_modified": "2025-12-02T12:23:32-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/12/ABF-scholarship-recipients-gathered-at-The-Mother-Church-at-Annual-Meeting-June-2025.jpg", "tags": [ "Gratitude", "Homepage Featured", "News", "Newsletter" ] }, { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12225", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/12/02/abf-trustees-award-the-lisa-mietchen-marketing-scholarship-to-matthew-consiglio/", "title": "ABF Trustees Award the Lisa Mietchen Marketing Scholarship to Matthew Consiglio", "content_html": "

\"MatthewThe Albert Baker Fund (ABF) Board of Trustees is delighted to announce the Lisa Mietchen Marketing Scholarship to recognize Lisa\u2019s 9-years of inspired service to our Board and the ABF community.

\n

\u201cThis special scholarship in Lisa\u2019s name is a fitting tribute to her deep commitment to our students and ABF\u2019s mission to serve Christian Scientists,\u201d said Alistair Savides, Chair of the Board. \u201cWe are excited to name Matthew Consiglio, a sophomore in Marketing at Carroll University, as the recipient. Matthew is a dedicated Christian Scientist, an accomplished student, and plans a career in marketing, where he will focus on \u201chelping people market their businesses, products, and services, whether it be social media posts, website design, or creative advertising.\u201d

\n

One of Matthew\u2019s highlights academically included joining the AMA (American Marketing Association) club. This is a professional club that taught him various aspects of marketing. For one activity, he was given a tennis ball and fishing wire, and was asked to create an innovative product, market its new use, and create materials to market it. Not an easy challenge!

\n

This year, a significant lesson he learned academically was to stay true to self. His greater confidence allowed him to step up more as a leader in group projects and speak up more in class.

\n

Matthew recently shared with us his gratitude for the support of ABF and his Christian Science community.\u00a0 He shared, \u201cChristian Science has really helped me in my life\u2026if I ever come across anything that may seem challenging in my life, I know I can conquer that challenge with ease.\u201d

\n

Alistair added, \u201cCongratulations, Matthew! This scholarship is well-deserved and I\u2019m sure you will do great things for mankind.\u201d

\n

If you would like to consider funding a special scholarship for Christian Scientists, please contact Sue Ellen Coughtry, Chief Advancement Officer, at\u00a0sueellen.coughtry@albertbakerfund.org.

\n", "content_text": "The Albert Baker Fund (ABF) Board of Trustees is delighted to announce the Lisa Mietchen Marketing Scholarship to recognize Lisa\u2019s 9-years of inspired service to our Board and the ABF community.\n\u201cThis special scholarship in Lisa\u2019s name is a fitting tribute to her deep commitment to our students and ABF\u2019s mission to serve Christian Scientists,\u201d said Alistair Savides, Chair of the Board. \u201cWe are excited to name Matthew Consiglio, a sophomore in Marketing at Carroll University, as the recipient. Matthew is a dedicated Christian Scientist, an accomplished student, and plans a career in marketing, where he will focus on \u201chelping people market their businesses, products, and services, whether it be social media posts, website design, or creative advertising.\u201d\nOne of Matthew\u2019s highlights academically included joining the AMA (American Marketing Association) club. This is a professional club that taught him various aspects of marketing. For one activity, he was given a tennis ball and fishing wire, and was asked to create an innovative product, market its new use, and create materials to market it. Not an easy challenge!\nThis year, a significant lesson he learned academically was to stay true to self. His greater confidence allowed him to step up more as a leader in group projects and speak up more in class.\nMatthew recently shared with us his gratitude for the support of ABF and his Christian Science community.\u00a0 He shared, \u201cChristian Science has really helped me in my life\u2026if I ever come across anything that may seem challenging in my life, I know I can conquer that challenge with ease.\u201d\nAlistair added, \u201cCongratulations, Matthew! This scholarship is well-deserved and I\u2019m sure you will do great things for mankind.\u201d\nIf you would like to consider funding a special scholarship for Christian Scientists, please contact Sue Ellen Coughtry, Chief Advancement Officer, at\u00a0sueellen.coughtry@albertbakerfund.org.", "date_published": "2025-12-02T12:10:12-08:00", "date_modified": "2025-12-02T12:10:12-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/12/Matthew-Consiglio_featured.jpg", "tags": [ "Homepage Featured", "News", "Scholarships" ] }, { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12193", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/12/02/abf-trustees-award-the-david-westphal-finance-scholarship-to-ashley-packard/", "title": "ABF Trustees Award the David Westphal Finance Scholarship to Ashley Packard", "content_html": "

\"AshleyThe Albert Baker Fund (ABF) Board of Trustees is delighted to announce the David Westphal Finance Scholarship to recognize David\u2019s 9-years of inspired service to our Board and the ABF community.

\n

Congratulations to Ashley, the recipient of this scholarship. Ashley is a junior studying Finance, with a minor in Energy and Market Resources at University of California, Berkeley. Ultimately, she would like to have a career in investment banking.

\n

This past year she joined a premier finance group club on campus. To become a member of this club she went through a rigorous extensive application process where she had a lot of preparation and interviews. Through this club, her group was responsible for running a hedge fund and making recommendations to the Board on how to invest the money.

\n

She also joined the campus Christian Science Organization (CSO) and began attending church.

\n

She loves being active in the CSO at Berkeley because it has given her a sense of community and inspiration throughout the academic term. Having a CSO has allowed her to talk to others and to find metaphysical support during challenging times like midterms and finals. Using Christian Science throughout her daily life has helped her overcome having a sense of anxiety and fear. \u201cI\u2019ve been working closely with the idea: \u201cNot my will, but Thy will be done,\u201d which has reshaped how I approach my future. I hope to pursue investment banking internships and summer positions in the years ahead, but above all, I trust in God\u2019s direction.\u201d

\n

If you would like to consider funding a special scholarship for Christian Scientists, please contact Sue Ellen Coughtry, Chief Advancement Officer, at\u00a0sueellen.coughtry@albertbakerfund.org.

\n", "content_text": "The Albert Baker Fund (ABF) Board of Trustees is delighted to announce the David Westphal Finance Scholarship to recognize David\u2019s 9-years of inspired service to our Board and the ABF community.\nCongratulations to Ashley, the recipient of this scholarship. Ashley is a junior studying Finance, with a minor in Energy and Market Resources at University of California, Berkeley. Ultimately, she would like to have a career in investment banking.\nThis past year she joined a premier finance group club on campus. To become a member of this club she went through a rigorous extensive application process where she had a lot of preparation and interviews. Through this club, her group was responsible for running a hedge fund and making recommendations to the Board on how to invest the money.\nShe also joined the campus Christian Science Organization (CSO) and began attending church.\nShe loves being active in the CSO at Berkeley because it has given her a sense of community and inspiration throughout the academic term. Having a CSO has allowed her to talk to others and to find metaphysical support during challenging times like midterms and finals. Using Christian Science throughout her daily life has helped her overcome having a sense of anxiety and fear. \u201cI\u2019ve been working closely with the idea: \u201cNot my will, but Thy will be done,\u201d which has reshaped how I approach my future. I hope to pursue investment banking internships and summer positions in the years ahead, but above all, I trust in God\u2019s direction.\u201d\nIf you would like to consider funding a special scholarship for Christian Scientists, please contact Sue Ellen Coughtry, Chief Advancement Officer, at\u00a0sueellen.coughtry@albertbakerfund.org.", "date_published": "2025-12-02T12:03:59-08:00", "date_modified": "2025-12-02T12:04:24-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/12/Ashley_Packard-full.jpg", "tags": [ "Homepage Featured", "News", "Scholarships" ] }, { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12184", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/12/02/the-free-money-first-strategy-how-to-fund-your-college-dream-without-drowning-in-debt/", "title": "The \u201cFree Money First\u201d Strategy: How to Fund Your College Dream Without Drowning in Debt", "content_html": "

\n
\n

\"\ud83d\udccb\" TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)

\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n

\"George

\n

\"\ud83d\udc46\" Download the complete guide with cost charts & checklists

\n
\n

Introduction: Don’t Let the Price Tag Scare You

\n

Whether you’re choosing your first college, considering a transfer, or rethinking your financial aid package, the question is the same: “How am I going to pay for this?” The stress is real.

\n

But here is the good news: You don’t have to figure it out alone, and you definitely don’t have to go broke. The secret is understanding the game before you start playing.

\n

“The key is knowing how to get the most aid without having to pay it all back later.”
\n\u2014 George Snow Scholarship Fund

\n
\n

1. Know What You’re Actually Paying For

\n

Before you fall in love with a campus, you need to look at the price tag\u2014the real one.

\n

The “Sticker Price” vs. Reality

\n

Most students only look at tuition. That’s a mistake. You need to look at the Cost of Attendance (COA). The COA includes:

\n\n

The Three Tiers of Cost

\n
\n
\n

\"\ud83d\udfe2\" In-State Public Schools

\n

Usually your wallet’s best friend. Governments subsidize these, making them the most budget-friendly option.

\n
\n
\n

\"\ud83d\udfe1\" Out-of-State Public Schools

\n

Expect to pay two to three times more than in-state students.

\n
\n
\n

\"\ud83d\udd34\" Private Universities

\n

Often have the highest sticker price, though they may offer aid to lower the cost.

\n
\n
\n

“Remember, the most expensive option isn’t always the best option – many affordable schools offer excellent education and opportunities.”
\n\u2014 George Snow Scholarship Fund

\n
\n

2. The “Free Money” Hierarchy

\n

When filling your financial bucket, always go in this order:

\n
\n
\n

Step 1: Grants (The Best Kind of Money) \"\ud83d\udc9a\"

\n

These are usually need-based and come from the government. You do not have to pay them back.

\n
\n
\n

Step 2: Scholarships (The Hustle) \"\ud83d\udc99\"

\n

This is free money based on merit, talent, or need. Apply for everything\u2014external scholarships from community groups and institutional scholarships from the colleges themselves.

\n
\n
\n

Step 3: Loans (The Last Resort) \"\u2764\"

\n

Loans must be repaid with interest. If you must borrow, always choose Federal Student Loans first. They have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans from banks.

\n
\n
\n
\n

3. The Golden Ticket: FAFSA

\n

You cannot ghost the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). It is critical.

\n
\n

Why? It determines your eligibility for grants, federal loans, and many school-specific scholarships.

\n

When? Submit it ASAP. Many aid programs are “first-come, first-served”.

\n

\"\ud83d\udd25\" Myth Buster: Think your parents make too much money? Apply anyway. The formula considers family size and other factors\u2014don’t self-reject!

\n
\n
\n

4. The Debt Trap (And How to Avoid It)

\n
\n

\"\u26a0\" Student loans are no joke.

\n

In the U.S., there is currently $1.74 Trillion in student loan debt\u2014that’s 1.5x more than credit card debt. Carrying heavy debt can delay major life milestones, like moving out of your parents’ house, buying a car, or starting a family.

\n
\n

How to stay safe:

\n\n
\n

Your Future Self Will Thank You

\n

Taking control of your finances now might feel like homework, but it’s actually self-care.

\n

“By taking charge now, you’ll be giving your future self the gift of freedom\u2014freedom to start a career, travel, or pursue passions without worrying about paying off massive student loans.”
\n\u2014 George Snow Scholarship Fund

\n
\n

\"\ud83d\udccb\" The “Am I Ready?” Checklist

\n

\"Free
\nScreenshot this or download it to your phone for quick reference!

\n
\n

YOUR COLLEGE DECISION CHECKLIST

\n
\n

\"\ud83d\udcda\" The Academics

\n

\n
\n
\n

\"\ud83d\udcb0\" The Money

\n


\n
\n

\n
\n
\n

\"\ud83c\udfe0\" The Living Situation

\n


\n
\n

\n
\n
\n

\"\ud83c\udfaf\" The Vibe & Future

\n


\n

\n
\n
\n
\n

\"\ud83d\ude80\" Next Step

\n

Have you filed your FAFSA yet? If not, that is your homework for tonight. If you have, start researching the specific “Cost of Attendance” page on your dream school’s website!

\n
\n

Material adapted from George Snow Scholarship Fund Guide by permission.

\n", "content_text": "TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)\n\n\n\n The Goal: Get a degree without mortgaging your future.\n The Strategy: Prioritize “free money” (grants/scholarships) over loans.\n\n\n\n\n The Rule: Always file the FAFSA early\u2014it’s the key to unlocking aid, even if you think your parents make too much money.\n The Reality Check: Don’t just look at tuition; look at the full “Cost of Attendance” (housing, food, books).\n The Trap: Loans should be a last resort. Borrow only what you strictly need, not what you are offered.\n The Reality: Average student loan payment: $490/month \u2014 for 10+ years.\n\n\n\n\n\n Download the complete guide with cost charts & checklists\n\nIntroduction: Don’t Let the Price Tag Scare You\nWhether you’re choosing your first college, considering a transfer, or rethinking your financial aid package, the question is the same: “How am I going to pay for this?” The stress is real.\nBut here is the good news: You don’t have to figure it out alone, and you definitely don’t have to go broke. The secret is understanding the game before you start playing.\n“The key is knowing how to get the most aid without having to pay it all back later.”\n\u2014 George Snow Scholarship Fund\n\n1. Know What You’re Actually Paying For\nBefore you fall in love with a campus, you need to look at the price tag\u2014the real one.\nThe “Sticker Price” vs. Reality\nMost students only look at tuition. That’s a mistake. You need to look at the Cost of Attendance (COA). The COA includes:\n\nTuition & Fees\nHousing and Food (Room & Board)\nBooks, Supplies, and Transportation\nPersonal Expenses (laundry, toiletries, etc.)\n\nThe Three Tiers of Cost\n\n\n In-State Public Schools\nUsually your wallet’s best friend. Governments subsidize these, making them the most budget-friendly option.\n\n\n Out-of-State Public Schools\nExpect to pay two to three times more than in-state students.\n\n\n Private Universities\nOften have the highest sticker price, though they may offer aid to lower the cost.\n\n\n“Remember, the most expensive option isn’t always the best option – many affordable schools offer excellent education and opportunities.”\n\u2014 George Snow Scholarship Fund\n\n2. The “Free Money” Hierarchy\nWhen filling your financial bucket, always go in this order:\n\n\nStep 1: Grants (The Best Kind of Money) \nThese are usually need-based and come from the government. You do not have to pay them back.\n\n\nStep 2: Scholarships (The Hustle) \nThis is free money based on merit, talent, or need. Apply for everything\u2014external scholarships from community groups and institutional scholarships from the colleges themselves.\n\n\nStep 3: Loans (The Last Resort) \nLoans must be repaid with interest. If you must borrow, always choose Federal Student Loans first. They have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans from banks.\n\n\n\n3. The Golden Ticket: FAFSA\nYou cannot ghost the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). It is critical.\n\nWhy? It determines your eligibility for grants, federal loans, and many school-specific scholarships.\nWhen? Submit it ASAP. Many aid programs are “first-come, first-served”.\n Myth Buster: Think your parents make too much money? Apply anyway. The formula considers family size and other factors\u2014don’t self-reject!\n\n\n4. The Debt Trap (And How to Avoid It)\n\n Student loans are no joke.\nIn the U.S., there is currently $1.74 Trillion in student loan debt\u2014that’s 1.5x more than credit card debt. Carrying heavy debt can delay major life milestones, like moving out of your parents’ house, buying a car, or starting a family.\n\nHow to stay safe:\n\nAlign your college choice with your career salary. Don’t take on $100k in debt for a career that starts at $35k/year.\nOnly borrow what you need. Just because a lender offers you $20,000 doesn’t mean you should take it all if you only need $10,000.\n\n\nYour Future Self Will Thank You\nTaking control of your finances now might feel like homework, but it’s actually self-care.\n“By taking charge now, you’ll be giving your future self the gift of freedom\u2014freedom to start a career, travel, or pursue passions without worrying about paying off massive student loans.”\n\u2014 George Snow Scholarship Fund\n\n The “Am I Ready?” Checklist\n\nScreenshot this or download it to your phone for quick reference!\n\nYOUR COLLEGE DECISION CHECKLIST\n\n The Academics\n\u2610 Does the college offer a strong program in my specific field of interest?\n\n\n The Money\n\u2610 What is the TOTAL Cost of Attendance (Tuition + Fees + Living)?\n\u2610 Would I be classified as an In-State or Out-of-State student?\n\u2610 Have I applied for all scholarships, grants, and financial aid options?\n\n\n The Living Situation\n\u2610 What are the housing and meal plan costs?\n\u2610 Is living off-campus cheaper? Is it an option?\n\u2610 Is commuting from home feasible to save money?\n\n\n The Vibe & Future\n\u2610 What is the campus culture like?\n\u2610 Are there career services to help me find internships and jobs?\n\n\n\n Next Step\nHave you filed your FAFSA yet? If not, that is your homework for tonight. If you have, start researching the specific “Cost of Attendance” page on your dream school’s website!\n\nMaterial adapted from George Snow Scholarship Fund Guide by permission.", "date_published": "2025-12-02T11:54:11-08:00", "date_modified": "2025-12-02T11:54:50-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/12/George-Snow-Student-Financial-Aid-Debt-Guide-for-College-Students-cover.jpg", "tags": [ "Homepage Featured", "News", "Scholarships" ] }, { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12157", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/10/14/the-albert-baker-fund-fall-2025-newsletter/", "title": "The Albert Baker Fund Fall 2025 Newsletter", "content_html": "

Home \u00a0 Download PDF \u00a0 Make a Gift

\n
\n\n", "content_text": "Home \u00a0 Download PDF \u00a0 Make a Gift", "date_published": "2025-10-14T08:00:40-07:00", "date_modified": "2025-10-09T14:38:53-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/10/Spring_2025_Newsletter_featured.jpg", "tags": [ "Africa", "Homepage Featured", "News", "Newsletter", "Student Stories" ], "summary": "Education transforms lives. It enables individuals to realize unlimited possibilities in their expression of God's great goodness. It's what drives The Albert Baker Fund (ABF) to help every Christian Scientist have the opportunity to gain a quality education." }, { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12142", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/09/23/abf-student-highlight-cole-quitter/", "title": "ABF Student Highlight \u2013 Cole Quitter", "content_html": "

\"Cole

\n

Congratulations to Cole Quitter on his graduation from Rollins College!

\n

\u201cBeing at a school with very few Christian Scientists, I have learned to have a very personal relationship with God. I have used Christian Science many times at college in classes as well as for injuries and I am very confident that my relationship with God has grown because of this.\u201d

\n

Last summer, Cole had the opportunity of traveling to Hong Kong to finish up his final credits and allow him to start his MBA program. \u201cFrom tropical hikes, to waterfalls, to urban exploring in a huge city, Hong Kong is such a diverse city. I have loved learning about new cultures and habits which allow me to view the world from yet another perspective.\u201d

\n", "content_text": "Congratulations to Cole Quitter on his graduation from Rollins College!\n\u201cBeing at a school with very few Christian Scientists, I have learned to have a very personal relationship with God. I have used Christian Science many times at college in classes as well as for injuries and I am very confident that my relationship with God has grown because of this.\u201d\nLast summer, Cole had the opportunity of traveling to Hong Kong to finish up his final credits and allow him to start his MBA program. \u201cFrom tropical hikes, to waterfalls, to urban exploring in a huge city, Hong Kong is such a diverse city. I have loved learning about new cultures and habits which allow me to view the world from yet another perspective.\u201d", "date_published": "2025-09-23T10:30:54-07:00", "date_modified": "2025-09-23T10:30:54-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/09/Cole-Quitter.jpg", "tags": [ "Career Success", "College & Graduate School News", "Homepage Featured", "Student Stories", "Success Stories" ] }, { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12139", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/09/23/announcing-2026-iceland-total-eclipse-experience-limited-spots-remaining/", "title": "Announcing 2026 Iceland Total Eclipse Experience \u2013\u00a0Limited Spots Remaining", "content_html": "

\"Iceland

\n

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure?

\n

We are so excited for our first-ever global travel excursion hosted by The Albert Baker Fund! If you haven\u2019t yet signed up, there may be still a few spots remaining.

\n

To register, go to: https://www.gonext.com/groups/albert-baker-fund/

\n

Join us July 29 \u2013 August 13, 2026, on a cruise from Copenhagen to Reykjavik with stops in Sweden, Norway, Scotland, and Denmark. Along the way you\u2019ll not only experience the sights and sounds of these amazing countries, but you\u2019ll also get to meet face-to-face with some of our international ABF students!

\n

You\u2019ll be in the heart of totality to witness the total solar eclipse in Reykjavik, Iceland on August 12th, 2026.

\n

Very limited spots remaining!

\n", "content_text": "Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure?\nWe are so excited for our first-ever global travel excursion hosted by The Albert Baker Fund! If you haven\u2019t yet signed up, there may be still a few spots remaining.\nTo register, go to: https://www.gonext.com/groups/albert-baker-fund/\nJoin us July 29 \u2013 August 13, 2026, on a cruise from Copenhagen to Reykjavik with stops in Sweden, Norway, Scotland, and Denmark. Along the way you\u2019ll not only experience the sights and sounds of these amazing countries, but you\u2019ll also get to meet face-to-face with some of our international ABF students!\nYou\u2019ll be in the heart of totality to witness the total solar eclipse in Reykjavik, Iceland on August 12th, 2026.\nVery limited spots remaining!", "date_published": "2025-09-23T10:19:50-07:00", "date_modified": "2025-09-23T10:19:50-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/09/shutterstock_2298200885_sm.jpg", "tags": [ "Adventure Trips", "Homepage Featured", "Live Events", "News" ] }, { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12090", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/06/24/abf-employee-highlight-lamech-katamba-africa-programs-manager/", "title": "ABF Employee Highlight \u2013 Lamech Katamba, Africa\u00a0Programs Manager", "content_html": "

\"Lamech

\n

Lamech Katamba, Albert Baker Fund Africa\u00a0Programs Manager visited the ABF Office in Folsom, CA, in May and June 2025.\u00a0 During his trip he made two presentations to the ABF Board of Trustees.\u00a0 Videos of these presentations can be found below, along with 3 additional interview clips.

\n

Presentations to the ABF Board

\n

Thursday evening, May 1, 2025
\n

\n

Friday morning, May 2, 2025
\n

\n

Additional interviews with Lamech

\n

ABF’s Impact in Africa
\n

\n

Lamech’s introduction to Christian Science
\n

\n

Lamech’s first Christian Science healing
\n

\n", "content_text": "Lamech Katamba, Albert Baker Fund Africa\u00a0Programs Manager visited the ABF Office in Folsom, CA, in May and June 2025.\u00a0 During his trip he made two presentations to the ABF Board of Trustees.\u00a0 Videos of these presentations can be found below, along with 3 additional interview clips.\nPresentations to the ABF Board\nThursday evening, May 1, 2025\n\nFriday morning, May 2, 2025\n\nAdditional interviews with Lamech\nABF’s Impact in Africa\n\nLamech’s introduction to Christian Science\n\nLamech’s first Christian Science healing", "date_published": "2025-06-24T12:22:23-07:00", "date_modified": "2025-06-24T12:22:23-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/06/Lamech-Youtube_Thumbnail.jpg", "tags": [ "Africa", "Homepage Featured", "Inspiration", "International News", "Video", "Videos" ] }, { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12079", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/06/02/abf-student-highlight-jacob-stenstrom/", "title": "ABF Student Highlight \u2013 Jacob Stenstrom", "content_html": "

\"Jacob

\n

We are delighted to highlight ABF grant recipient, Jacob Stenstrom, who just finished his junior year at Oklahoma State University. With a double major in Environmental Biology and Zoology, he hopes to pursue an environmental career in order to help companies ensure their projects are environmentally sustainable.

\n

“I have grown tremendously in the last year, both as a person and a Christian Scientist. Attending church, staying connected with CedarS, going to the Annual Meeting, and participating in the online learning communities through ABF were the driving factors of this growth.”

\n

Keep up the good work, Jacob!

\n", "content_text": "We are delighted to highlight ABF grant recipient, Jacob Stenstrom, who just finished his junior year at Oklahoma State University. With a double major in Environmental Biology and Zoology, he hopes to pursue an environmental career in order to help companies ensure their projects are environmentally sustainable.\n“I have grown tremendously in the last year, both as a person and a Christian Scientist. Attending church, staying connected with CedarS, going to the Annual Meeting, and participating in the online learning communities through ABF were the driving factors of this growth.”\nKeep up the good work, Jacob!", "date_published": "2025-06-02T21:16:31-07:00", "date_modified": "2025-06-02T21:16:31-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/06/Jacob-Stenstrom.jpg", "tags": [ "Career Success", "College & Graduate School News", "Homepage Featured", "Student Stories", "Success Stories" ] }, { "id": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/?p=12071", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/2025/06/02/download-and-print-2025-abf-scholarships-poster/", "title": "Download and print 2025 ABF Scholarships Poster", "content_html": "

We invite you to download, print and post our 2025 ABF Scholarships poster in a prominent location to help get the word out!

\n

\"Download

\n

Download 2025 ABF Scholarship Poster (PDF)

\n", "content_text": "We invite you to download, print and post our 2025 ABF Scholarships poster in a prominent location to help get the word out!\n\nDownload 2025 ABF Scholarship Poster (PDF)", "date_published": "2025-06-02T17:12:59-07:00", "date_modified": "2025-06-02T17:13:19-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Gabriel Serafini", "url": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/24bddbb394eff14300a8d1b157a5407e4c7c907bc3c74f4f50f8313e8ef70c0f?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.albertbakerfund.org/files/2025/06/Download-2025-ABF-Scholarship-Poster-scaled.jpg", "tags": [ "College & Graduate School News", "Homepage Featured", "News", "Scholarships" ] } ] }