KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Area students interested in studying business administration will benefit from a scholarship fund established by Home Federal Bank of Tennessee.
A $250,000 gift to the University of Tennessee-Knoxville’s 21st Century Campaign will provide assistance to residents in Home Federal’s service area–Knox, Anderson, Blount and Sevier counties–who plan to study in UT-Knoxville’s college of business.
David Sharp, chairman of Home Federal Bank of Tennessee, said the gift is an investment in the community.
“This area has been good to Home Federal, and we believe in sharing with those who work hard everyday to make our community better,” Sharp said. “We hope this gift will make it possible for students to attend college who might not otherwise be able to do so. The education they receive benefits them intellectually and socially and, in turn, benefits our society.”
Scholarship recipients will also be considered for internships with the company, he said.
UT President Joe Johnson said scholarships are a top priority in the 21st Century Campaign.
“We are grateful that David Sharp and the people of Home Federal believe in the University of Tennessee and in helping students,” Johnson said. “In addition to their scholarship support, Home Federal has provided employment to many of our graduates. We are very proud of the partnership we have with Home Federal.”
Dr. Warren Neel, dean of UT-Knoxville’s College of Business Administration, said, “While students across the nation are going more into debt to get an education, assistance from a financial institution like Home Federal helps students launch their careers with the knowledge that a previous generation was willing to invest in them.”
Home Federal, now in its 70th year, has 16 branches in the four counties it serves.
The goal for UT’s 21st Century Campaign is $250 million. One year after announcing the five-year drive, officials said they have gifts and pledges totaling 80 percent of the goal. A goal of $63 million has been established for scholarships.
UT-Knoxville’s campaign goal is $130 million.
—
Contact: Jack Williams(423-974-6878)