Peña Charitable Foundation

The Dan Peña Private Scholarship

For student veterans at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) and is funded personally by Dan Peña, a veteran himself, to help those who served their country continue their education with financial hardship assistance.

This scholarship is made possible with the assistance and coordination of the CSUN Veteran Alumni Chapter.

Apply Now Meet The Recipients

A Soldier First

Dan Peña, The Army & CSUN

Veteran, Alumnus, Founder

Before he was "The Trillion Dollar Man®," Dan Peña was a soldier. He voluntarily joined the United States Army, graduated from Infantry Officer Candidate School, and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant — going on to serve in military police, intelligence, and security roles with NATO in Europe.

When his service ended, Dan used the GI Bill to fund his education at San Fernando Valley State College — now California State University, Northridge (CSUN) — earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. That degree became the foundation for everything that followed.

Dan has stayed close to CSUN ever since — serving on its Alumni Association Board, its Trust Fund Board, and its Foundation Board, and returning to teach entrepreneurship to its students. The Private Scholarship for Student Veterans is a direct extension of that relationship: one veteran making sure the next generation of student veterans has the same shot he did.

The Peña Foundation not only alleviates financial burdens but inspires a ripple effect of positive change within communities, creating opportunities for a brighter and more equitable future.

The Peña Charitable Foundation

Scholarship Recipients

Student Veterans We've Supported

Every recipient below has served their country and is now serving their own future. Photos aren't always available — their names and their service speak for themselves.

2025

Maria Nunez

Kaitlyn Bryant

2024

Kevin Blanco

Alejandro Rocha

Manuel Grazianni Rendon

James Hainer

Melinda Collins

Interested?

Apply Or Nominate A Veteran

If you're a student veteran, or you know one who could benefit from this scholarship, reach out to the Foundation directly. Kath can walk you through eligibility and how to submit an application.

Apply Now

Who It's For

Honorably discharged student veterans pursuing higher education who could use support covering tuition, books, or living costs while they study.

Honor Your Service. Continue Your Education.

The Dan Peña Private Scholarship for Student Veterans is here to help you take the next step. For Inquiries click the button below.

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