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Report on Philanthropy

Your giving to Norfolk State University makes an impact. Costs of higher education continue to rise as economists and financial analysts predict, and this increases the need for scholarships, grants, and other types of financial assistance for those seeking a college degree. COVID-19 is still impacting the economy and students’ ability to pay for higher education. More than 90% of Norfolk State University students are on some type of financial assistance. Scholarships allow students to concentrate on their studies and obtaining a degree rather than worrying about how they will pay tuition, room, and board. This is how scholarships afford students a greater chance of success.


Your generous gift makes an impact!

Many NSU students are also first-generation college students. Your financial support and willingness to give create a variety of scholarship opportunities that provide much-needed financial support.

According to research from the College Board’s report Trends in Student Aid Highlights, the total amount of financial aid awarded to undergraduate and graduate students nationwide in 2020-2021 was $234.9 billion. The average amount of aid per full-time equivalent student in 2021 was $14,800 per undergraduate and $26,920 per graduate student.

In a State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) report, “for every $2,000 in average unmet need, graduation rates decline.” The report also noted that meeting all students’ financial needs corresponds with a 9% increase in graduation rates. “Meeting students’ financial need is not only a completion strategy but also an equity strategy. That is important because The Virginia Plan for Higher Education sets a goal of 70% higher education attained statewide by 2030.”

Your giving makes an impact!

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average weekly salary of an individual that has earned a bachelor's degree is approximately $1,248. If you multiply that by 52 weeks in the year, the result is approximately $65,000 per year. In comparison, an individual with a high school diploma earns around $39,000 annually. Every donation – every dollar invested in a scholarship means that another student will be able to realize the dream of a college education. A college degree from Norfolk State University is an investment in the individual student and in the broader sense – an investment across the world.

Obtaining a college degree makes an impact and your gifts definitely have an impact!