By Marianne Requarth
When people think about philanthropy and education, they often picture major gifts to colleges and universities. Those investments certainly matter, but philanthropy's impact reaches much further. Every day, donors are helping students pursue their educational and career goals through scholarships and support for educational institutions of all kinds, from kindergarten through 12th grade schools and career centers to community colleges and universities.
Today, that support matters more than ever. Educational institutions at every level are facing growing challenges. Costs continue to rise, budgets are stretched, and public funding often struggles to keep pace with increasing needs. As institutions contend with rising operating costs, changing workforce demands and uncertainty around government funding, philanthropy is becoming an increasingly important funding source.
According to the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, charitable contributions to U.S. colleges and universities reached $61.5 billion in fiscal year 2024, a sign that donors believe in the power of education to expand opportunity and strengthen communities. While these figures focus on higher education, the broader trend reflects growing philanthropic investment in education at all levels, from local school foundations and career-training programs to scholarship funds that support lifelong learning.
For many schools and programs, philanthropy is no longer simply a welcome addition to the budget. It is helping fill funding gaps, create new opportunities and ensure students have access to the resources they need to succeed.
One of the most meaningful ways philanthropy impacts education is through scholarships. Donor-funded scholarships help students overcome financial barriers that might otherwise prevent them from pursuing a degree, certification or workforce credential. According to the 2024 National Association of College and University Business Officers Commonfund Study of Endowments, nearly half of all endowment spending at colleges and universities, 48.1 percent, is directed toward student financial aid.
But behind every statistic is a student whose future has been changed.
At The Dayton Foundation, we see that impact firsthand. Last year, donors established 40 new scholarship funds, the highest number of new scholarship funds created in a single year in our history. That milestone reflects a growing commitment from individuals, families and businesses who want to invest in educational opportunities and leave a lasting legacy in our community.
The demand for that support is substantial. In 2025, we awarded 1,497 scholarships totaling more than $3.6 million to students pursuing a wide variety of educational paths. Some are attending
traditional four-year colleges. Others are earning associate degrees, completing technical training or pursuing certifications that lead directly to careers in high-demand fields.
Those numbers tell two important stories.
First, they reflect continued donor investment in education. Scholarship funds are established for many reasons, including honoring individuals, supporting specific fields of study, addressing workforce needs or expanding access to education. Together, they create a growing pool of resources that benefit students across a wide range of educational paths.
Second, they highlight the demand for financial assistance. The vast number of scholarship applications submitted each year demonstrates that many students are seeking support as they pursue degrees, certifications and workforce credentials. It also underscores the important role philanthropy plays in helping students access and complete educational programs.
As educational institutions continue to navigate financial challenges and changing demands, philanthropy's role will only become more important. Whether through support for schools, educational programs or scholarship funds, donors help expand access to learning opportunities and strengthen the talent pipeline for future employers.
Ultimately, philanthropic investments in education extend beyond individual students. By supporting educational attainment and workforce development, donors contribute to stronger institutions, a more skilled workforce and healthier communities.
Marianne Requarth is the director of development for The Dayton Foundation.