Courtesy of Morgan State University
Morgan State University reports that the Morgan State University Foundation (MSUF) awarded a record-topping $5.8 million in scholarships to 2,560 students during fiscal year 2024. This historic year of philanthropic achievement represents the Foundation’s largest number of scholarship recipients and funding awarded in an academic year. This milestone underscores the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to advancing educational opportunities and supporting the academic pursuits of Morgan students.
“It has been an exceptional year for our university, marked by the remarkable success of our scholarship program through the University’s foundation. We are proud to have awarded our deserving students a record number of scholarships, enabling them to pursue their academic dreams and profoundly impact their communities,” said David K. Wilson, president of Morgan State University. “This achievement underscores our commitment to supporting educational excellence and fostering an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our generous donors and dedicated staff for their unwavering support and dedication to student success. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our students and our institution.”
The $5.8 million in scholarships awarded through the Foundation are distinct from those distributed by the University’s Office of Financial Aid. MSUF-awarded scholarships highlight the Foundation’s vital role in providing philanthropic support to advance the mission of the university as outlined in the University’s “Transformation Morgan 2030: Leading the Future” strategic plan. The previous record for Foundation scholarships awarded stood at $5.1 million during the 2022-23 academic school year. The scholarships awarded this past year primarily supported undergraduate students.
“This year’s record-breaking scholarship awards reflect the Foundation’s growing endowment and our steadfast commitment to supporting the university’s mission, including fostering academic excellence and providing vital financial support to our students,” said Endia M. DeCordova, vice president for Institutional Advancement at Morgan State University and executive director of the Morgan State University Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to our donors whose generous contributions have made this possible, enabling more students than ever to achieve their educational goals and ultimately earn their Morgan degree.”
The Foundation’s successful ability to ensure that current students were able to continue their educational pursuits uninterrupted and new students gained access to pursue their educational aspirations was made possible by the extraordinary generosity of its donors.
Underscoring the banner year of philanthropy, the MSUF welcomed 10 new scholarships, bringing the total number of scholarships stewarded by the Foundation to more than 1,500. Among the new scholarships, five have been created by or are in honor of former Morgan faculty or alumni, including:
- Ruthe T. Sheffey Endowed Scholarship – alumna (’47), professor of English Emerita and longest tenured faculty
- Otto Begus Endowed Scholarship Fund – former professor and chair of Philosophy and Religious Studies
- Dr. Bernard and Mrs. Christine Dean Keels Scholars – former chaplin of the University Memorial Chapel
- Melvin and Cathy Miles Endowed Scholarship Fund – alumnus (’73) and former music conductor and direct of University Bands
Tanya V. Rush Women’s Empowerment Endowed Fund – alumna (’79) and former assistant vice president for Student Affairs
Each of the Foundation’s donors—individuals, corporations, and foundations—has played a crucial role in the Foundation’s mission to support the academic and personal growth of Morgan students. Their contributions have aided in alleviating the financial burdens of higher education and enhancing the University’s ability to provide a robust and inclusive academic environment, fulfilling Morgan’s pursuit of growing the future by producing graduates to lead the world.
MSUF remains committed to advancing Morgan State University’s goals through effective stewardship of philanthropic contributions. This record-breaking year is a testament to the Foundation’s strategic efforts to mobilize resources and deliver impactful scholarship and academic program support.
The Morgan State University Foundation, Inc. is a separately incorporated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Established in 1971 and governed by its Board of Directors, MSUF provides financial support and counsel for Morgan State University, Maryland’s largest Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and the State’s designated Preeminent Public Urban Research University.
The Foundation exists solely to promote the growth, progress, and general welfare of Morgan State University. The MSUF administers private donations in support of academic programs, student scholarships, faculty development, public service initiatives, and other priorities of Morgan State University.
