CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper and his wife Nicole will donate $567,000 over the next three years to set up scholarships for the University of South Carolina’s Department of Sports and Entertainment Management.
“Dave and I want to make sure education and the college experience is accessible during this global pandemic,” Nicole Tepper said. “This gift is designed to help students stay in school and on the path toward earning their degree.”
The school said four incoming freshmen will receive four-year grants of $10,000 a year.
“Our students are incredibly fortunate to learn from industry leaders, and this powerful new partnership with Nicole and David Tepper will shape the future of sport and entertainment management for generations to come,” said Matt Brown, chair of South Carolina’s Department of Sport and Entertainment Management. “We are deeply grateful and very excited for the young people whose lives will be changed by these innovative programs and scholarships.”
USC, which is the innaugural group, will also receive funds to offset financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Department of Sport and Entertainment Management is part of the university’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management and offers bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. degree programs.
The Teppers will also contribute $250,000 to some Johnson C Smith University students that faced financial hardship caused by COVID-19.
“This is an important first step in our relationship with Johnson C. Smith”, said Nicole Tepper. “I’ve visited the university and met with President Armbrister. We want to make a difference.”
Along with academic qualifications, the Tepper Scholars program will emphasize diversity and first-generation students.
Cox Media Group