NASHVILLE (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University alumni Alfred and Rose Coleman are no strangers to philanthropy, especially in giving back to their alma mater to make sure deserving students get a chance for quality education.
They have been recognized many times over the years by individuals and the institution for their giving.
And the state and the Tennessee Board of Regents have also taken notice.
In a packed Kean Hall Monday during the annual University Honors Convocation, the couple whose endowed scholarship at TSU has grown to nearly $270,000, were presented with the Chancellor’s Excellence in Philanthropy Award in recognition of their gifts and efforts in raising funds for the institution.
“Today, it is my pleasure to present this award to a distinguished couple who have pledged their support to their esteemed alma mater – Tennessee State University,” said TBR Chancellor John Morgan. “Alfred and Rose Coleman are two outstanding Tennessee State University alumni, who exemplify TSU’s motto of Think, Work, Serve.”
“We have been blessed, and what better way to give back than make sure that students who cannot afford college are provided the means to realize their dream of a quality education,” said Rosa “Our children were fortunate to go to college on scholarships. The same way, we want to be sure other students get the same opportunity.”
“We are thankful for this honor,” added Alfred.
TSU President, Dr. Glenda Glover, who joined the Chancellor in making the presentation, thanked the Colemans for their gifts and support to the University.
“For many students here, education would not be possible without the generosity of people like you (Colemans),” Dr. Glover said. “Thank you for all that you are doing for our students and Tennessee State.”
The Colemans were also recognized for giving off their time, especially serving as agents for the 2012 Vintagers Class Reunion, during which more than $191,000 was raised for scholarships.
In addition to being active with the Nashville Alumni Chapter of the Tennessee State University National Alumni Association, the couple are inaugural members of the TSU Legacy Society, which recognizes donors who have included TSU in their estate plan or established an endowment.
Alfred graduated from TSU in 1957, and Rose in 1967.
For more information on Endowed Chairs or planned giving, go to http://www.tnstate.edu/
Featured Photo Caption: Rose and Alfred Coleman (center) were presented the Chancellor’s Excellence in Philanthropy Award recently by John Morgan, Chancellor of the Tennessee Board of Regents (Left) and Dr. Glenda Glover, President of Tennessee State University. The alumni couple was recognized for their philanthropy efforts for the University. (photo by John Cross, TSU Media Relations)