Law and Order actress donates $100,000 for UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television scholarships

Law and Order: Special Victims Unit star Mariska Hargitay has donated $100,000 for acting scholarships for students in UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television, officials announced Tuesday.

The scholarships will be awarded based on need and merit to undergraduate and graduate students, said Teri Schwartz, dean of the UCLA Theater, Film and Television School.

Schwartz said Hargitay approached her about the gift. Hargitay’s education at UCLA was meaningful for her, Schwartz said.

“She felt this was a good way to give back and help a new generation of artists,” Schwartz said.

Hargitay is the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award for Theater.