UNF Foundation

The UNF Foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt entity that provides financial support and counsel to the University and enables it to achieve critical elements of its mission. The Foundation's dynamic and distinguished board provides leadership in obtaining and managing private funding for the First Coast's only public university. Gifts to the Foundation enable UNF to fund new programs and enhance existing ones far beyond what are possible using state allocations alone. The University's accomplishments have been achieved by diligent stewardship. Through careful planning, maximum benefit is derived from every dollar donated. The Foundation Board is proud of the many scholarships, professorships, programs and community outreach initiatives funded by these gifts.

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"My scholarship allows me to shift more of my time to my academic passions and pursuits without the threat of financial instability."

- Bailey R., UNF Junior

"Receiving a scholarship allowed me to focus on my studies without the stress of how I would afford them."

- Jose S., UNF Alumni '07

"I hope that one day I can make the same meaningful contributions to a student's education, just as my scholarship donor has made to mine."

- Terryana D., UNF Sophomore

Recent Foundation Highlights

330 students received first generation foundation scholarships

$3 million + awarded to 1,354 students through scholarships and fellowships.

Student holding a sign that reads thank you unf donors

Group of students holding unf triangle signs.

Terry University Scholars Endowment

"Because of this scholarship, I am able to attend the University of North Florida and study Health Administration. It keeps me motivated to maintain a high GPA and complete my degree. I look forward to giving back to the Jacksonville community and serving as a health care administrator in a skilled nursing facility upon graduation."

Caleb Toney
Health Administration Major

Ryzewic Family Endowed Scholarship Fund

TIAA Bank First Generation Scholarship Fund

“As I walk around campus, network with new people, join clubs and deepen my knowledge, I will be thinking of this blessing. The contribution made to my education allows me to keep running after my dreams. Not only does this gift bring me support, but it gives me hope to make a difference and change the world.”

Devonna Harrison
Elementary Education Major

Brian Sherman and David Sherman First Generation Endowed Scholarship

“UNF is like a family to me. Both of my sons are Ospreys and received an excellent education. I chose to establish an endowed and first generation scholarship specifically to help students whose parents did not have the opportunity to go to college and allow those students to benefit from such a valuable resource. The community is so fortunate to have this great institution in our backyard. I encourage people to get involved at the University and take the time to get to know faculty, staff and students.”

Steven Sherman
Endowed and First Generation Scholarship Donor
UNF Foundation Board Member

A Message from the UNF Foundation

"Student success is at the heart of everything we do at UNF, and every day, we see the profound impact that each gift to UNF has on our students and our University. Donations of every size are changing lives — through scholarships, research experiences and opportunities to learn all over the world!

We have come a long way in 50 years, and our donors continue to play a central role in achieving what’s possible. UNF now ranks nationally as a Top Public University by U.S. News & World Report and is also an emerging force in research, having recently achieved R2 research status — a designation shared by top universities in the nation. Your support continues to elevate our University!

Regardless of the passion that moves you, UNF offers avenues for your giving to generate opportunities that drive faculty enrichment and student success.

Your generosity inspires and motivates us every day. Thank you for investing in UNF’s future! We are indeed grateful."

Chuck Ged, '86
Chair, UNF Foundation, Inc.
Board of Directors

Teresa Nichols
Interim Vice President for University Development and Alumni Engagement
Interim Executive Director, UNF Foundation, Inc.

University Achievements

Ranked among the Best National Universities by U.S. News and World Report

No. 1among state schools for graduates employed in Florida

Named a Top Military Friendly school

17,016 Enrollment Fall 2020

Ranked among Top 10% of Universities Worldwide by Center for World University Rankings

100,000 Total UNF Degrees reached in Spring 2020

Named a Diversity Champion by INSIGHT into Diversity Magazine