Melania Trump Announces $7.2 Million Foster Care Scholarship Endowment at LSU

First lady Melania Trump announced a $7.2 million scholarship endowment at Louisiana State University on Saturday to support students who have experienced foster care. The announcement was made through her "Fostering the Future" initiative at Patrick F. Taylor Hall.

The permanent endowment includes a $5 million commitment from MMR Group, an electrical contracting company based in Baton Rouge led by LSU alumnus James B. "Pepper" Rutland. Members of the LSU Foundation raised an additional $2.2 million from 75 donors.

“As adults, we have a moral obligation to our children, especially those in foster care. But, as you know, we must act to truly make a difference. The foster care community doesn’t need words.”

LSU Foundation President and CEO Krista Raney said the contributions brought the scholarship fund to more than $7.2 million and growing. LSU President Wade Rousse said the $5 million leadership gift is expected to generate approximately $200,000 annually to help students cover tuition, fees, books and room and board.

Trump told attendees the achievement will give young people from foster care an anchor of stability, a strong educational foundation and a chance to build a wonderful life. She added that adults have a moral obligation to children in foster care and must act to make a difference.

LSU has 14 scholars under the program and Alabama has nine, part of a group of 100 students supported across 26 participating colleges and universities this semester. The first lady later attended the football game between No. 15 LSU and No. 9 Alabama at Tiger Stadium.

The foster care program was featured across campus and at the stadium. Trump watched the game from an enclosed box while LSU players wore her "Be Best" initiative logo on their helmets and uniforms. Fans received commemorative white "Be Best" towels.