Foundation History
The Tompkins Cortland Community College Foundation was incorporated in 1978 to buttress the ongoing work of the College and encourage and accept private donations to support the institution’s mission. Its driving work has been the creation of opportunity through accessibility – whether it be financial support for students, property-based management support for the College, or equipment-related support for programs, the Foundation has always taken a flexible and innovative approach to the execution of its mission.
Direct Support for Students
Since 2001, the Foundation has awarded nearly $5,315,000 million in scholarship money to support students. Each year students relay thanks to numerous donors for their support. Oftentimes this support is the difference between a student attending college or not attending, or having the resources to succeed when they attend.
Support for the Foundation has grown throughout its existence, with its first million-dollar contribution coming in 2007. In 2008, the Pathways Scholarship for adult students was established. To date, 466 students have received the scholarship and $2,092,863 awarded.
Foundation Properties
The College itself cannot legally expand property holdings, so the Foundation assumes the role of active owner and manages the properties throughout Ithaca, Cortland, and Dryden, with the goal of expanding opportunities for students and the communities served by the College. This manifests itself in the form of the TC3 Farm next to campus, extension centers in Ithaca and Cortland, and other properties throughout the area.
Leadership
The Tompkins Cortland Community College Foundation Board of Directors is comprised of alumni, business leaders, and community leaders from Cortland County, Tompkins County, and Tioga County.