For the second year in a row, Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to students pursuing higher education.

This year, CFMT awarded scholarships to 361 students across the region. More than half of those recipients, 60%, are renewal students continuing their education with support from scholarships they previously received through CFMT.

Kelly Pietkiewicz, scholarships senior manager at CFMT, believes that the scholarship program is not only helping students begin college, but also helping support them throughout their academic journey.

“We want our scholarship awards to not just be transactional, but transformative,” said Pietkiewicz. “We know by helping students secure this funding year after year, we are not just their financial partner, but also a community partner that wants them to succeed.”

The milestone comes at a time when the cost of college continues to place heavy pressure on students and families. Like many things in Middle Tennessee, tuition and fees have risen sharply over the past two decades, and many families are navigating financial aid difficulties. Additional hidden costs, such as books, lab fees, health insurance and other expenses, can appear after a student has already enrolled.

Pietkiewicz noted the lack of clarity around costs such as these creates stress for students trying to make responsible decisions about their future and finances.

“One of the constant things I hear from families and students is the frustration with the lack of transparency with the total cost of college,” said Pietkiewicz. “Every single college issues a different formatted financial aid letter, which causes extreme confusion for families.”

Scholarships help close a gap that can determine whether students are able to enroll or continue on to another year. Scholarship support reduces the number of hours a student needs to work part-time, helping cover unexpected costs and giving students more room to focus on their coursework, internships, research or career preparation.

“Every single dollar that a student receives allows them to be more of a college student and fully pursue their dreams,” said Pietkiewicz.

CFMT continues to place emphasis on the importance of renewable scholarships. When students know support may continue beyond their first year, they can plan with greater confidence and stay focused on completing their degrees.

Recently, one renewal student shared in an email with Pietkiewicz what that ongoing support meant after learning their scholarship would continue.

“Receiving this award is truly an honor and a blessing,” wrote the student. “I will continue to work hard toward earning my degree, knowing I have an incredible support system standing alongside me.”

Pietkiewicz said the $1 million milestone reflects both the growing need students face and the generosity of donors who want to help.

“There are donors who’ve had their funds with us for 20 years that increase their annual gift each year because they know the cost of college is continuing to rise,” said Pietkiewicz. “It is definitely a stressful time for college-going students. However, at the same time, we have many generous people in our community who are doing what they can to make it less stressful for students.”