Omega Psi Phi Contributes $30,000 to Scholarship Endowment Fund

Original Source

During the 10th annual Scholarship Appreciation Luncheon held recently at Claflin University, graduates of the Lambda Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. presented a check representing a significant increase in its endowed scholarship fund.

Chapter members added nearly $30,000 to the Lambda Sigma Endowed Scholarship Fund.

“We had a goal to raise our scholarship fund from $72,000 to $100,000 by Homecoming of last year,” said the Rev. Whittaker V. Middleton, vice president for Institutional Advancement and an initiate of the Lambda Sigma chapter of Omega Psi Phi.

“We were able to meet and exceed that goal, which will greatly benefit students for years to come. I salute the commitment of these men,” he said.

The Scholarship Appreciation Luncheon is held each year to recognize scholarship donors and recipients. According to Claflin University President Dr. Henry N. Tisdale, the annual luncheon not only gives students an opportunity to meet their donors, but is also a first-hand demonstration in philanthropy.

“This occasion is really about understanding how we keep our students in school,” Tisdale said. “Your support is very important. We want students to know and understand the source of their scholarships. They are attached to people. During this luncheon we can meet and greet the many scholarship donors who help and support Claflin University.”

Also recognized for establishing endowed scholarship funds were Mary W. Solomon in the amount of $18,639 for the Walker W. Solomon Endowed Scholarship and Dr. Zara E. Sadler in honor of Charles R. Sadler for $50,000.

A total of 644 donors awarded scholarships to Claflin students this year, including annual and endowed scholarships, UNCF scholarships and other scholarships from civic and community organizations and individuals. Endowed scholarships at Claflin have reached $18 million.

“My scholarships have allowed me to focus on my school work,” said Brittany Pringle, a junior marketing major and one of 10 students nationwide to receive the Citigroup Scholarship. “I encourage students to continue to apply for scholarships. It shows people that we care about our future.”

Sixty-four students were awarded scholarships from Claflin’s largest donor, the Abney Foundation from Anderson. The Abney Foundation has been awarding scholarships to Claflin students since 1987 when it awarded students $100,000 in scholarships. Now, Abney Foundation scholarships have exceeded $2 million.

Tisdale thanked donors for their support, especially in challenging economic times.

“Thank you for the support you continue to give. Nothing is more important than investing in education,” Tisdale said. “You truly believe education is the key. You believe in our students.”

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