'Big Bang Theory' Cast Announces UCLA Scholarship Endowment

Over $4 million has been raised by the Chuck Lorre Family Foundation and the show's own cast and production staff.

The cast and crew of CBS' Big Bang Theory, in partnership with the Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, have established a scholarship endowment at UCLA, it was announced on Thursday.

The scholarship will benefit a select number of incoming undergraduate students in need of financial aid and looking to study Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at the university.

Currently, a combined total of over $4 million has been raised by the Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, roughly 50 Big Bang Theory cast and staff members, partners such as CBS and Warner Bros. Television and other notable industry leaders. Series stars Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons and Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting, as well as executive producers Bill Prady and Steven Molaro, are among those who have contributed to funding The Big Bang Theory Scholarship Endowment.

"We have all been given a gift with The Big Bang Theory, a show that’s not only based in the scientific community, but also enthusiastically supported by that same community — this is our opportunity to give back," co-creator Chuck Lorre said in a statement. "In that spirit, our Big Bang family has made a meaningful contribution, and together, we’ll share in the support of these future scholars, scientists and leaders."

The 20 scholars chosen to receive financial assistance for the 2015-16 academic year will be announced on the set of The Big Bang Theory this upcoming fall.

The upcoming venture marks UCLA's first scholarship endowment created and funded by a television show.