Statements

Mission

The Tennessee State University Foundation is a non-profit foundation, incorporated under the laws of the State of Tennessee, whose mission is to promote and support literacy, scientific, educational, scholarship, research, charitable and development purposes and goals at Tennessee State University.

Background

Tennessee State University Foundation was by chartered by the State of Tennessee on November 4, 1970. The Foundation was determined as a 501 c 3 non profit tax exempt organization by the Internal Revenue Service May 3, 1971.
The foundation is managed by an independent board of directors comprised of alumni, business and community leaders who have affection for Tennessee State University and are committed to its vision for the future. The responsibility of the board is to acquire, manage, and administer foundation funds to support the university.
Gifts given to the Foundation are used as the donor advises through accounts set up in the foundation. The majority of contributions are restricted for scholarships, colleges, and specific departments. Unrestricted funds provide flexibility to support the university's most immediate needs.
The TSU Foundation adheres to FASB and IRS regulations. The foundation is audited annually by the State of Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury as a component unit of Tennessee State University.

Impact

Tennessee State University Foundation is the official charitable organization authorized to accept and manage private contributions on behalf of Tennessee State University. Throughout the TSU Foundation's almost 50 years of operation, the Foundation has provided discretionary funds for programs and services where state funds were not available. Currently, the Foundation manages an endowment of over $60 million and received annual contributions of $4.5 million last year for scholarships, academic programs and capital support. More than $1.8 million was awarded in scholarships to 661 students for the academic year and over $1 million in program support to the various colleges and departments.

Needs

While the rigors of balancing academics and student life is a challenge for some students, the bigger challenge confronting most is the huge financial burden of funding their education. As a public institution, TSU costs are considerably less than comparable private institutions and remains one of the best buys for higher education; however, despite this, the number of students receiving financial aid - often in the form of loans - continues to grow. Declining federal and state education funding - which have contributed to tuition hikes - pose enormous obstacles to students. In an effort to alleviate the high debt students face upon graduation, TSU has embarked on a campaign to drive academic scholarships. Our goal is $3,000,000 in academic and need-based scholarships.

Service Categories
Primary Category:	Education  - Higher Education
Secondary Category:	Education  - Higher Education
Tertiary Category:	-

Areas Served

Metro Nashville and Middle Tennessee.TSU has students from 45 U.S. states and 38 countries.

TN

TN - Davidson