A Learning Experience
Philanthropy
The late Ken Shipp, a 1947 MTSU graduate and professional football coach, was perhaps best known for his generosity to Lady Raider athletics, including the gift that renovated the women’s basketball offices. Soon, however, he will likely be known to future generations for creating a way for deserving students to get a college education. University officials announced in October 2012 that Shipp, who died March 5, 2012, at age 83, decided that most of his estate would benefit the fund he established with the MTSU Foundation in 2007. A $3.5 million bequest to that scholarship fund for Rutherford County students, coupled with earlier gifts, brings the fund’s total to more than $4 million—making it the most generous donation to date for Rutherford County students. The fund will help select incoming freshmen from Rutherford County public high schools who demonstrate an ability and desire to excel but for whom tuition is a major barrier. (Right) Ken Shipp at MTSU’s centennial celebration. (Bottom) The newly remodeled women’s basketball offices.
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