The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale: Scholarship recipient Jaclynn Brennan, Fashion Merchandising, with Fashion Chair Andre West, far left, President Chuck Nagele, Dean of Academic Affairs Pete West, far right)

What is The Education Foundation?

We raise money and award scholarships! The Education Foundation is a non-profit tax-exempt foundation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation is supported by contributions from multiple sources, and provides scholarships to students who attend Education Management Corporation (EDMC) owned schools. To further its charitable mission, the Foundation seeks donations from foundations, companies, faculty, staff, friends, and other diverse sources in order to retain the level of scholarships distributed annually to students attending EDMC owned schools.

The Education Foundation began building relationships with the EDMC system of schools in 2002. Although the Foundation is a separate legal entity, it works closely with the EDMC schools to provide financial assistance to EDMC students. The Foundation relies on EDMC public relations and communications directors, financial services staff and school presidents to help raise money for the scholarships. Since its founding, the Foundation has awarded more than $500,000 at more than 50 campuses.

The Foundation's growth has expanded the scope of its giving opportunities. In the last few years, the Foundation has established more than 35 named scholarships as tributes to the memory or retirement of a loved one, received contributions from other foundations and companies, accepted in-kind donations and developed new scholarship and development committees at many EDMC schools.

The Foundation Board of Directors includes school presidents, central staff leaders, non-profit professionals and outside directors who serve three-year terms. In 2004, the Board established standing committees to assist with the direction and growth of the Foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is money raised for scholarships?

A variety of strategies are used to raise funds. Since alumni, employees, corporations and friends of the schools are strong advocates for the Foundation, special events have been held at the various schools. Press stories about deserving EDMC students have also resulted in contributions to the Foundation.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The Education Foundation is a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible for federal income tax purposes. Donors receive a letter acknowledging their contributions for tax filing purposes at the end of each year.

Which school will receive my donation?

The Foundation maintains funds for each system of schools within the EDMC system. Donors may designate their contribution to support a scholarship at the school of their choice or they may direct their contribution as an unrestricted gift to the Foundation.

Who makes the decisions about the scholarship awards?

Each school has a Scholarship Committee that reviews student applications and submits recommendations. The Foundation's Scholarship Committee then reviews the recommendations and awards scholarships on an objective and nondiscriminatory basis. No family members of EDMC employees may qualify for scholarships.

I want to help - how do I contact the Foundation?

Contact The Education Foundation through the Scholarship and Development Committees at each school or:

Mission

Building Futures through The Education Foundation

The Foundation is a philanthropic organization that exists to assist students in their professional and career education. The Foundation raises money for scholarships to students currently enrolled in The Art Institutes schools, Argosy University/Western State University, Brown Mackie College schools and South University throughout the United States and Canada. The Foundation is an umbrella organization that is committed to assisting students at all the EDMC schools and programs.

The official registration and financial information of The Education Foundation may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free, within Pennsylvania, 1 (800) 732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.