Institutional Advancement

The Office of Institutional Advancement supports the mission of Philander Smith College by strengthening and enhancing the institution’s fiscal position and reputation as a leader in higher education through the pursuit of public and private fundraising, effective donor and alumni relations, compelling public relations and marketing, the production of powerful and creative communication vehicles, and effective management of the Title III grant program – in addition to garnering support for the College through its designation as a UNCF member institution.

• Commencement 2013 will have a completely different look and feel as Philander Smith hosts the Inauguration of Dr. Johnny Moore on May 3, the day before he presides over the 2013 Commencement Ceremony.  Commencement will be held during Alumni Reunion/National Association of Alumni Convention. Special recognition will be given to the 50^th year reunion of the Class of 1963, and a celebration banquet will honor previous classes that have marked their 50^th reunions. Additionally, graduates from the following class years will also be recognized: 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008.  
• Special effort will be given to locating lost alumni in an effort to increase the quality of our alumni database. 
• The annual Phon-a-thon is held each fall using current students to contact alumni about contributing to the Annual Fund. 
• “Key Cities” programs are in place are used to connect alumni in various cities with alumni living there.  
• Planned Giving is a major focus of the fundraising program through education and consistent messaging about how to employ this vehicle as a means to give back to the college. Contact Rodney Parks for more details at (501)975-8535. 

Types of Scholarships 

Renaissance 100 The goal of the program is to secure scholarships (full ride, full tuition, half tuition, and grants) for 100 incoming students whom have been identified as embodying the qualities of Philanderians of old—students who will, through their ambitious pursuit of academic excellence, take the College to new educational heights.

RENAISSANCE 100 SCHOLARS – DONOR LEVELS

Endowed Scholarships benefit the students of Philander Smith College through an invested fund which produces income to be awarded, based on criteria designated by the benefactor. A benefactor may establish and name an endowed scholarship fund with a minimum gift of $25,000.

Non-Endowed Scholarship This is a scholarship fund in which the donor contributes the award amount annually. Contributions can be added to the fund by the initial donor and/or others who may wish to contribute to the fund (i.e., family, friends, employers, etc.). The scholarship may be established in the name of an individual, family, company, organization, or group. This scholarship also may be a way to honor or memorialize an alumnus, faculty/staff member, student, family member, or others who may have a special connection to Philander Smith College.

Endowed chairs and professorships are created to attract and retain highly qualified faculty. These permanent funds are invested to produce income which can be used to supplement the salary of the chair holder or distinguished professor. A benefactor may name and/or endow a chair or professorship with a minimum gift of $1,000,000 and $500,000, respectively.

Office Location

The Office of Institutional Advancement is located in Kelly Hall, the two-story, Colonial-style brick house on campus that formerly served as home to the College’s presidents.