LOS ANGELES, CA. - February 9, 2009 - The Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation has been awarded a $20,000 grant from University of Phoenix to help disadvantaged students pursuing their academic studies. The donation will support the Foundation's broad scholarship programs, including those in the areas of science and math.

In addition to the University's grant, TASF awards $1,500 scholarships to 41 students and a $20,000 Pratt & Whitney scholarship to a deserving student who instills the ideals, leadership and commitment as exemplified by the Tuskegee Airmen.

"The University's generous contribution will allow us to continue the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen by assisting even more people who want to improve their lives through education," said Jerry T. Hodges, Jr., president of the Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation.

Supporting TASF is a natural for the University, since its mission closely aligns with the organization's goals, according to Ayla Dickey, senior vice president of public affairs and corporate social responsibility for Apollo Group, the University's parent company. "Our mission is to increase access to education in critical areas, especially for under-represented and low-income students traditionally under-served by the education continuum," she said. "Together with nonprofit partners such as Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation, we work to make a positive impact on underrepresented students."

ABOUT TASF
TASF is a nonprofit, 501(c) (3) organization. Its board of directors is comprised of Documented Original Tuskegee Airmen (DOTAs) and corporate and community leaders committed to providing leadership by ensuring that funds are available to assist financially disadvantaged and deserving students in the pursuit of their education. For more information, please visit www.taisf.org.

ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. As of November 30, 2008, 384,900 students were enrolled at University of Phoenix, the largest private university in North America. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world.

University of Phoenix/Apollo Group

University of Phoenix/Apollo Group

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