Expanding scholarship support makes education accessible to bright, promising students. Attracting the most talented students means a brighter future for the University. Your support of this pillar will allow us to provide access and opportunity to the most deserving students.
Making education accessible to bright and promising students has been paramount to Radford University from the days of founding President John Preston McConnell, who often personally assisted students. That tradition of making education accessible has continued forward to the current administration, which awards over 500 scholarships annually. Students come to Radford University eager to learn and thrive. The financial challenges associated with higher education can make the pursuit of a college degree challenging or impossible for some students. Student funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia has decreased 22 percent, or approximately $1,700 per student, in recent years.
By expanding scholarship support and growing our endowment, Radford University can - and will - recruit, retain and graduate students who are prepared to pursue their passions and compete in a global market. We want Highlanders to have exceptional learning opportunities - in and out of the classroom - while keeping student debt to a minimum.
SUPPORT ACCESS AND OPPORTUNITY
- Endowed Professorships
- Annual Scholarship Awards
PRIORITIES AND GOALS
Arts Society
Because of the Arts Society, the College of Visual and Performing Arts continues to provide over 100 scholarships for young artists each year. In addition to scholarship support, our donors help student artists participate in college touring ensembles, study-abroad opportunities, international conferences and guest artist residencies.
Endowments and Scholarships
Establishing an endowment or an annual scholarship is an act of generosity that allows Radford University to attract and retain the very best students, regardless of financial need. More than 60 percent of our students receive some form of financial aid and scholarship support is an essential part of this assistance. Scholarships can be based upon financial need and/or merit. You may establish an endowment or an annual scholarship to honor a loved one or memorialize an important person in your life. Regardless of the type of scholarship you decide best meets your goals, a member of the Advancement team will work with you to write a Gift Agreement that ensures your scholarship is awarded according to your wishes while meeting the needs of our students.
For more information about creating an endowment, contact the Office of University Advancement at 540-831-5407, or download the Endowed and Annual Scholarship Guide.
Faculty and Staff Support
Because of Radford University’s faculty and staff, we are part of an institution that continues to receive national recognition for the high-quality education, rich experiences, top-notch facilities and the stunningly beautiful campus Radford University offers to our students and our community. Each year, our faculty and staff help further our mission by supporting Radford University’s annual fund through recurring payroll deduction gifts or through a one-time gift.
Highlander Club
The Highlander Club, formerly referred to as the Radford Athletic Club, is dedicated to raising financial resources for Radford University Athletics to ensure that our coaches and student-athletes have the necessary financial means to compete for championships and to provide student-athletes the best collegiate experience on and off the playing field. Private donations to the Highlander Club by alumni, friends, businesses and fans are vital to the long-term growth and success of the University's athletics.
Legacy and Naming Opportunities
GIFTS THAT LEAVE A LEGACY
You can give your name or that of another person, group or business to a Radford University facility or program. Naming opportunities are a way for alumni, family and friends to make gifts in honor of milestone events, groups or individuals, or in memory of loved ones.
Naming gifts can support student scholarships, faculty research, creative endeavors or the construction and furnishing of a university building.
The Radford Fund
The Radford Fund provides vital current use dollars that make a difference today!
Reunions
One way to celebrate your Radford University experience is to make a gift in honor of your class. By giving back to your alma mater, you will ensure that the University can keep providing an exceptional educational experience for students today and for years to come.
The Selu Conservancy
The 380-acre Selu Conservancy offers students and faculty a living laboratory for research and artistic endeavors. Support its mission and operations with a gift to the Selu Endowment Fund to help sustain, enhance and improve the conservancy for future generations.
The Student Experience
Your support for campus offices that shape the student experience at Radford propels us forward and motivates students to continue on the path towards graduation. Annual support for these areas allows Student Affairs professionals to meet the diverse needs of our student body. From high-impact programs and excellent leadership training to support for students at risk and beyond, Student Affairs is poised to provide a transformative student experience to our Highlander family.
