Program areas at Pat Tillman Foundation
The programmatic pillar of the Pat Tillman Foundation is the Tillman scholars (ts) program. Founded in 2008, the ts program supports our nation's active-duty service members, veterans and their spouses with an academic scholarship and programmatic support. The scholarship covers direct study-related expenses, including tuition and fees, books and living expenses, for scholars who are pursuing undergraduate, graduate or professional degrees as a full-time student at a public or private, u.s.-based accredited institution. Each year, the Foundation selects up to 60 Tillman scholars who embody Pat's commitment to service, learning and action. The scholars chosen demonstrate extraordinary academic and leadership potential, a track record of perseverance, and a deep desire to create positive change through their work in the fields of medicine, law, business, policy, technology, education, and the arts. Since its inception, the ts program has evolved into a community of military veterans and spouses, accepting applicants based on merit and potential for impact. Overall, since inception the Foundation has invested over 34 million in Tillman scholar scholarships and has named over 871 Tillman scholars at more than 166 academic institutions nationwide. Tillman scholars represent all five branches of the united states military, including the national guard and reserves, as well as military spouses. Aided by a grassroots marketing effort, the Foundation received nearly 1,500 complete applications during the month-long submission window during the year ended december 31, 2023. After careful review and consideration among regional and final selection committees, 60 candidates were selected to join the tenth class of Tillman scholars. During the years ended december 31, 2023 and 2022, the Foundation awarded 1,409,500 and 1,311,803, respectively, in scholarships. As of december 31, 2023 and 2022, the board has designated 1,221,950 and 2,082,650, respectively, in funds for anticipated scholarship fund renewals for current Tillman scholars. Prior to focusing on veterans' education, the Foundation fully endowed the leadership through action program at Arizona state university, serving promising undergraduate students with a unique personal development and leadership curriculum.