WLP Cheeroke Townsend Endowed Scholarship

Who Is Cheeroke Townsend, CFA

Cheeroke Townsend’s story reflects the strength, determination and resilience it takes to pursue a degree while raising a family. As the first Dream Givers scholar at the University of South Florida — a scholarship created by Women in Leadership & Philanthropy to help single student parents stay enrolled and complete their education — Cheeroke turned opportunity into impact.

With the support of this community, she was able to persist through challenges, remain focused on her goals and ultimately change the trajectory of her life and her child’s future. Her journey is not just one of personal success, but of possibility—showing what can happen when students are given the resources and encouragement they need to thrive.

Twenty years later, Cheeroke remains committed to the organization that helped her and began the Cheeroke Townsend Endowed Scholarship — the first endowed scholarship created by a WLP alumna.

About WLP

For more than two decades, USF Women in Leadership & Philanthropy (WLP) has been transforming lives and making a difference by investing in student success. Founded in 2005 through the leadership of USF President Emerita Judy Genshaft, Carol Morsani and a community of dedicated philanthropists, business professionals and entrepreneurs, WLP advances educational and research opportunities that empower the next generation of leaders. Members engage deeply with students, faculty and each other through mentorship, philanthropy and meaningful connection. Since its founding, the program has invested more than $5 million in scholarships and faculty research awards, creating lasting impact across USF and beyond.

What We Do

Women in Leadership & Philanthropy invests in students who demonstrate promise, ambition and a commitment to leadership. Established by one of the program’s first scholars who is now a USF alumna, the Cheeroke Townsend Endowed Scholarship specifically supports finance majors to help them focus on academic excellence and career preparation rather than financial stress. With your generosity, we can grow this endowed fund and support USF students for years to come.

Your Impact

During Giving Week, members of the USF community are encouraged to come together to make a positive impact by expanding access to education and opportunity. Your gift provides direct financial support to help students stay enrolled, thrive academically and prepare for leadership roles in the finance industry. Because this scholarship is endowed, your contribution creates lasting impact year after year. Every dollar strengthens the legacy Cheeroke began — empowering students who will go on to lead, innovate and give back. Together, we can uplift future finance leaders.

USF Faculty and Staff: You can give online through this site, or complete this payroll deduction form (enter fund #896091, Cheeroke Townsend Endowed Scholarship) and email it to fscampaign@usf.edu.

Spread the Word

We are counting on your help! Make an even bigger impact by sharing your support of this campaign using the social media tools at the top of this page.

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It’s #USFGivingWeek! Join me in supporting the Cheeroke Townsend Endowed Scholarship and help empower finance students on their journey to success. Every gift at usf.to/gwwlp helps open doors for generations of WLP scholars. Thank you and Go Bulls!