Tennessee Tech establishes Charles F. Douglas Scholarship to support future educators
A final act of generosity by Tennessee Tech University alumnus Charles F. Douglas will help future generations of educators through a new endowed scholarship established in his name.
The scholarship honors Douglas's legacy as an educator, counselor and public servant. He earned his bachelor's degree in secondary education from Tech in 1961 and later completed a master's degree in counseling and guidance in 1970. Throughout his life, he credited his education at Tech with opening doors and shaping his career.
Before his death earlier this year at age 88, Douglas made plans to give back to the university that had such a profound impact on his life. Through a gift entrusted to close friends Larry, Sherry and Justin Nance of Chattanooga, a substantial contribution has established the endowment, with additional funding expected from his estate.
“Charles loved Tennessee Tech, and he always said Tech is what got him started in his career,” said Sherry Nance, who cared for Douglas in his later years and, along with her husband, Larry, and son, Justin, helped carry out his wishes. “He wanted to pay it forward and help students who might not have the same opportunity that he had – students who might not be able to afford college.”
Douglas, who spent much of his life in North Chattanooga, worked as a school counselor before later serving with the U.S. government. He lived in Germany for eight years and traveled extensively. Despite leading a private life, those close to him remember his generosity and commitment to helping others.
The Charles F. Douglas Scholarship will be awarded to students in Tech's College of Education and Human Sciences, continuing Douglas's legacy of service and dedication to learning.
“Charles F. Douglas exemplified the very heart of what we hope to instill in our graduates – a deep appreciation for the opportunities education provides and a desire to give back so others can succeed,” said Lisa Zagumny, dean of Tech's College of Education and Human Sciences. “His belief that Tech opened doors for him is a powerful testament to the impact of our university, and his generosity will now open those same doors for future educators. We are incredibly grateful for his legacy and the lives it will continue to shape.”