Pat Tillman Foundation Names UA a New Tillman Military Scholars University Partner

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Pat Tillman Foundation has named The University of Alabama as one of three new University Partners in support of the Tillman Military Scholars program, which provides educational scholarships for veteran and active service members and their spouses.

UA, George Washington University and the University of Washington have been selected as Tillman Military Scholar University Partners for the 2013-2014 academic year, bringing the total number of partner institutions to 16.

“We are honored to be chosen as a Tillman Military Scholar University Partner,” said David Blair, director of veteran and military affairs at UA.  “This is a testament to the efforts and dedication of our faculty and staff to serving our student veterans, service members, and dependents. These scholarships will lift the financial burden and allow several of our students to continue working toward their educational goals. UA’s Tillman Military Scholars will represent UA at the national level and help enhance our reputation as a top ‘Veteran and Military Friendly’ university.

“The University of Alabama stands committed to ensuring the success of all of our students but especially those who have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom,” Blair said.

The Tillman Military Scholarship is open to all veteran and active duty service members and their spouses from all the branches of the military, including the National Guard and reserves. Applicants can seek assistance as either an undergraduate or graduate full-time student.

Information about the scholarship can be found at  http://vets.ua.edu/scholarships.cfm, and the application can be found at http://www.pattillmanfoundation.org/tillman-military-scholars/apply/. Applications are due by Feb. 15. The UA Office of Veteran and Military Affairs will provide support to all individuals interested in applying. Those interested are asked to email vma@bama.ua.edu.

UA, George Washington University and the University of Washington join Arizona State University, Columbia University, Eastern Kentucky University, Mississippi State University, Texas A&M University, University of Arizona, University of Arkansas, University of Maryland, University of Michigan – Flint, University of Minnesota, University of Oregon, University of South Florida and University of Wyoming as University Partners.

The Pat Tillman Foundation is partnering with these institutions because each is a leader in support services for student veterans, active service members and their families on campus. Each University Partner helps identify and select final candidates during the Tillman Military Scholar screening process and upon selection of Tillman Military Scholars on their campus, supports the building of community regionally throughout the United States.

In 2008, the Pat Tillman Foundation established the Tillman Military Scholars program, dedicated to supporting educational opportunities for service members and their spouses by filling the financial gaps in the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill. The Tillman Military Scholars program covers not only direct study-related expenses such as tuition and fees, but also other needs, including housing and child care.

About the Pat Tillman Foundation

Family and friends established the Pat Tillman Foundation following Pat’s death in 2004 while serving with the 75th Ranger Regiment in Afghanistan. Created to honor Pat’s legacy and pay tribute to his commitment to leadership and service, the Pat Tillman Foundation is a national leader in providing educational support and resources to veterans, active service members and their spouses. Inspired by Pat’s attributes of leadership, passion for education and spirit of service, the Foundation annually awards educational scholarships through the Tillman Military Scholars program. Since the Foundation’s inception, over $5 million in educational support has been invested in individuals committed to a life of service both in and out of uniform, including over $3.2 million awarded to 230 Tillman Military Scholars nationwide. For more information on the Tillman Military Scholars program, please visit www.pattillmanfoundation.org/tillman-military-scholars/.