This scholarship program is the biggest and oldest resident service in the history of HCA. First launched at three dozen apartment communities in 2006, it now reaches more than 80 communities across Southern California and beyond…

Throughout its many iterations, the scholarship has consistently embraced change. We boosted our funding in the face of a recession to serve more students in need. We introduced a new category to aid our growing senior population. We faced the digital age with fresh promotional techniques and materials. We met the recent surge in online classes with the addition of a virtual learning resource guide.

Evolution is not without its challenges. Success in change requires courage and commitment. For that we owe a great debt to Ron H. Olson (1942-2020).

Ron served as President of HCA since its inception in 1988. Across his tenure of 32 years, he played an important role in developing our nonprofit. From staff development to portfolio growth to partner relations and resident services, Ron’s commitment to the provision of quality affordable housing was unwavering. Determined as he was, Ron was also incredibly warm, kind-spirited, and family-oriented. He was truly salt of the earth.

In 2021, in loving memory of Ron, we renamed the scholarship in his honor. Now in its 19th year, the Ron H. Olson Annual Scholarship heartily welcomes your interest and application for educational funding!