Meet our founders: Dr. Jim and Trisha London
Thrive Scholars was founded in 2001 by Dr. Jim and Trisha London on a simple but powerful idea: talented students from low-income backgrounds deserve more than just a chance at college, they deserve the support, opportunities, and life-changing experiences they need to thrive in college, succeed in meaningful careers, and achieve their dreams for the future.
A powerful beginning in Los Angeles.
It all began as a scholarship program in South Central Los Angeles 25 years ago, where Dr. Jim and Trisha London were inspired by the book, And Still We Rise. The story followed talented and ambitious students facing economic barriers and demonstrated that even the brightest needed stronger guidance to transform potential into lasting success. The Londons recognized the opportunity gap and set out to fill it.
Seven regions. One national network.
After more than a decade of success in Los Angeles, Noonan Scholars was formed in Boston as a sister organization. Following successful outcomes in both Los Angeles and Boston, the two organizations merged in 2017 to form one organization.
In 2020, the organization became Thrive Scholars, reflecting a continued commitment to the Londons’ founding vision: that talented young people deserve the support not only to get to college, but also to thrive in college and build meaningful careers. Since then, Thrive has expanded to Chicago, New York City, Jacksonville, Southeast Michigan, and Eastern North Carolina.
“Our involvement with Thrive Scholars has been absolutely one of the best pieces of our lives. It gives me an incredibly rewarding feeling because it’s so real.”
Jim London — Co-Founder
Jim London
Co-Founder, Thrive Scholars
Trisha London
Co-Founder, Thrive Scholars
Carrying the Vision Forward
Invest in the next generation of leaders and help talented young people reach their potential while strengthening communities.