Ridgeview High School student Jordan Jensen overcomes challenges to win ‘Beating the Odds’ scholarship

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Stand for Children Oregon is pleased to recognize Ridgeview High School’s Jordan Jensen as the recipient of the Beat the Odds Scholarship. This scholarship awards $5,000 annually for four years to support outstanding students who have overcome significant challenges while demonstrating unwavering dedication to their education.

Jordan is one of eight students in Oregon to receive the 2025 scholarship, reflecting his amazing resilience and determination to achieve his goals despite a difficult upbringing.

Jordan’s journey has been marked by deep challenges. Despite all this, he became a fighter, using his past as motivation to strive for a brighter future. His determination contributed to his academic success and leadership on the field as a varsity football player and wrestler.

“I’ve faced a lot of challenges, but I don’t let them define me,” Jordan shared. “Instead, I use my experience to motivate myself to do better and help others who may be in similar situations.”

With plans to attend Clackamas Community College and pursue a degree in business and law, Jordan aspires to become a corporate lawyer. He understands the importance of education and the power of positive role models, having experienced first-hand the influence of a supportive community. He hopes to give back by sharing his story and helping others who may feel alone in their struggle.

ABOUT THE OREGON CHILDREN’S STAND: Stand for Children is a unique catalyst for educational equity and racial justice to create a brighter future for us all. We are building a future in which every child in Oregon has the opportunity to succeed. Our tireless advocacy and research initiatives have significantly advanced educational equity and racial justice across the state.

In 2016, our team, together with a community of more than 20,000 lawyers, passed Measure 98: Success in High School which provides $150 million a year for research internships for high school students. In 2023 we passed Early Literacy Initiative which provides $90 million a year to support research for our youngest readers. This means our six-person team invests more than $210 million annually in targeted investments that make a significant difference to children. You can learn more about the impact of these policy investments. Here.

ABOUT THE REVIVAL FOUNDATION: The mission of the Renaissance Scholarship Program (RSP) is to provide renewable scholarships and support to talented students with significant financial need who will be the first in their family to earn a bachelor’s degree. The scholarship provides a maximum of $5,000 per year towards tuition, housing, books and supplies.

RSP provides additional support to recipients through scientific events, a growing online library of resources, and other ongoing programs.

ABOUT THE BEAT THE ODDS SCHOLARSHIP: The Beat the Odds Scholarship was established in 2007 as a partnership between Stand for Children Oregon and The Renaissance Foundation to support students in Oregon who have achieved success despite adversity. The scholarship is provided by the Renaissance Foundation. To be eligible for this $5,000 per year scholarship, applicants must reside in Oregon, be a first-generation college student, and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.