With the proceeds of the inaugural IUP Legacy Gala in 2008, IUP established the University Fund for Academic Excellence to support academic, programmatic, and experiential expenses that directly benefit IUP students and that expand the opportunities students can have beyond the classroom.
Decisions about the use of the funds are made jointly by IUP’s president and provost and the executive director of the Foundation for IUP.
During this initial year, the fund provided fellowships for graduate students and scholarships for deserving undergraduates. Concurrently, planning commenced for a new program that would enhance the global awareness and world view of IUP’s students, many of whom are first- generation university students who have not had the opportunity to see much of the world.
The IUP International Education Scholarship Program was announced in February 2009. Made possible in large part by the University Fund for Academic Excellence, this new program will provide financial support to students enrolled at IUP for overseas educational opportunities (study abroad, exchange, faculty-led programs, and independently-arranged programs).
This program will help defray the additional costs associated with overseas educational experiences, for example, travel expenses and passport and visa fees—the very expenses that might prevent a talented student from being able to take advantage of these potentially life-changing experiences.
As you support the IUP Legacy Gala, the University Fund grows, more students at IUP will be able to take advantage of this opportunity, and new opportunities can be created so that IUP students benefit from an unparalleled academic program and community.
Thank you for supporting the University Fund for Academic Excellence through your attendance and your purchases of items in the silent auction.
