What is the Kirkwood Foundation?

The Kirkwood Foundation exists to bridge the gap between the needs and resources of Kirkwood Community College.  The nonprofit, tax exempt corporation, was established in 1969 to raise funds to provide assistance to students who wish to enhance their lives through education and training.  Historically, the Foundation supports the college in areas that are not supported by taxes, tuition or grants.

Did you know? the Foundation….

• Announced in May 2008 that the This Changes Everything campaign exceeded its $10 million goal by raising $11.2 million to support student scholarships and student programs.

• Manages more than 300 scholarship funds, including 140 endowed scholarships.

• Exceeds 300 members in the Samuel J. Kirkwood Society, which is comprised of individuals who have either created a planned gift or endowed their gift to Kirkwood, KCCK-FM or the Older Iowans Fund.

• Plans to award $1.7 million in scholarships to 1,200 students for the 2009-2010 academic year through a variety of programs including:

• ACCESS - awards scholarships to selected eighth grade students that commit to stay in school, meet attendance and grade requirements, and graduate from high school.

• Athletics scholarships

• County Center scholarships

• General student scholarships

• Honors Program

• International scholarships

• Leaders for Tomorrow scholarships

• Named scholarships in specific areas within the college

• Performing Arts scholarships

• Presidential scholarships

• Project START - supports first year students most in need of assistance as they begin their college education.

• Project FINISH - supports second year students that have successfully completed Project START.

• Returning adult scholarships

• Provided financial support to the following funds:

• The Emergency Fund assists with students logistical needs, including unexpected expenses for child care, transportation or medical needs.

• The Condolence Fund provides flowers/plants for employees who experience a death in their immediate family and to college retirees upon their death.

• The Computer Buy Program enables faculty and staff to purchase computer hardware and software through interest-free loans.

• Provided funds to support Kirkwood events, staff and faculty development:

• Endowed Faculty Chair program

• Mel Oliven Annual Lecture series

• Passport to Retirement seminars