Who We Are
The Cheyney Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 1971 under the leadership of President Wade Wilson, with a founding commitment to advancing the growth and welfare of Cheyney University. Governed by its own bylaws and led by a dedicated Board of Directors, the Foundation operates separately from the university while fully committed to its success. Its mission is to advance the well-being, growth, and prosperity of Cheyney University. The Foundation manages private donations to fund scholarships, academic programs, faculty development, student arts and activities, public service initiatives, and other university priorities. Gifts to The Cheyney Foundation are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law and are carefully managed to honor each donor’s intent.
Our History
The Cheyney Foundation, Inc. is a robust nonprofit organization established in 1971 under the leadership of President Wade Wilson, with a steadfast commitment to advancing the growth and welfare of Cheyney University. As an independent 501(c)(3) entity, we are dedicated to actively raising private funds that will significantly enhance scholarships, faculty, research initiatives, facilities, and academic programs. We pride ourselves on effectively managing generous contributions from alumni, parents, corporations, and other community supporters, ensuring that all donations are tax-deductible and aligned with our donors’ intentions and Cheyney University’s strategic goals. In recognition of the university’s exciting opportunities and the potential for growth amid current funding challenges, we are eager to connect with private supporters and businesses who share our vision. Together, we can invest in this vital mission and make a significant impact on our community and the world.
Our Mission
The mission of the Cheyney Foundation is to raise funds, promote and support academic excellence, innovation and sustainability of Cheyney University.
Cheyney University’s mission is to prepare confident, competent, reflective, visionary leaders and responsible citizens. We uphold our tradition of academic excellence as we maintain our historical commitment to opportunity and access for students of diverse backgrounds. Cheyney University provides a nurturing, intellectually challenging and socially enriching environment.
Our Vision
Our vision is to create and support long-term sustainable programming, foster innovation and promote an environment of high level academic achievement for all students at Cheyney University.
The Cheyney Foundation assists in leveraging its resources to make Cheyney University, the premiere HBCU in the nation, with an unparalleled educational experience that is sought after internationally
The Cheyney Foundation assists in leveraging its resources to make Cheyney University, the premiere HBCU in the nation, with an unparalleled educational experience that is sought after internationally
Values
Integrity
We uphold our financial responsibilities with transparency and accountability, ensuring every dollar is managed to the highest ethical standard.
We uphold our financial responsibilities with transparency and accountability, ensuring every dollar is managed to the highest ethical standard.
Academic Excellence
We award scholarships and need-based support to Cheyney students who demonstrate outstanding commitment to academic achievement.
We award scholarships and need-based support to Cheyney students who demonstrate outstanding commitment to academic achievement.
Partnerships
We build partnerships rooted in mutual trust and shared goals, creating a collaborative environment that fuels innovation and success.
We build partnerships rooted in mutual trust and shared goals, creating a collaborative environment that fuels innovation and success.
Innovation
We embrace fresh ideas and pioneering programs that position Cheyney University as a leading institution of excellence.
We embrace fresh ideas and pioneering programs that position Cheyney University as a leading institution of excellence.
Sustainability
We develop sustainable pathways across programs and initiatives that strengthen Cheyney University’s impact for generations to come.
We develop sustainable pathways across programs and initiatives that strengthen Cheyney University’s impact for generations to come.
Education
We believe education is the cornerstone of a thriving career and a fulfilling life—opening doors and empowering students to pursue their dreams.
We believe education is the cornerstone of a thriving career and a fulfilling life—opening doors and empowering students to pursue their dreams.
Access & Opportunity
We work to remove financial barriers so students of every background can access a Cheyney education and the opportunities it creates.
We work to remove financial barriers so students of every background can access a Cheyney education and the opportunities it creates.
Community Impact
We extend Cheyney’s impact beyond campus through public service, civic partnerships, and lasting investment in our communities.
We extend Cheyney’s impact beyond campus through public service, civic partnerships, and lasting investment in our communities.
Our North Star Goals
01
Fund Student Success
Grow scholarship funding today while building a lasting endowment for Cheyney students tomorrow.
02
Build Strategic Partnerships
Partner with corporations, foundations, and individual donors to fund Cheyney’s operations, facilities, and new initiatives.
03
Foster Academic Excellence
Cultivate an academic community that broadens perspectives and fuels achievement, innovation, and bold thinking.
04
Expand Community Impact
Deepen our impact through public service and civic partnerships, strengthening Cheyney’s presence locally, nationally, and beyond.
Impact Snapshot
$2.4M+
contributed
$870k
scholarships
50+
years of support
Programs
funded
Heritage & History
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania traces its origins to 1837, when it was founded as the African Institute through the vision and philanthropy of Richard Humphreys. Established to expand educational opportunity for people of African descent, the institution evolved into the Institute for Colored Youth and ultimately into what is now recognized as the nation’s oldest historically Black institution of higher education.
Across generations, the university has grown in scope and impact — expanding academic offerings, preparing educators and leaders, and continually adapting to meet the needs of students and society. Name changes reflecting this evolution culminated in the designation Cheyney University of Pennsylvania in 1983.
To strengthen and sustain this legacy, The Cheyney Foundation was established in 1971 as an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the university through private support. By raising and stewarding philanthropic gifts, the Foundation helps fund scholarships, academic initiatives, faculty development, and student programs that enhance the Cheyney experience.
Together, the University and Foundation represent a shared commitment to access, excellence, and opportunity — honoring a historic mission while investing in future generations.