THOUGHTFUL GIVING FOR
STRONGER COMMUNITIES
AND BETTER LIVES
The East Tennessee Foundation (ETF), a nationally accredited community foundation, and the Pat Summitt Foundation (PSF), a Tennessee nonprofit corporation, proudly announce a significant evolution in the development of PSF: The Pat Summitt Foundation Fund – which has been operating as a fund of the ETF – is transitioning into a 501(c)(3)public charity on March 1 and will commence operations as an independent nonprofit on that date.
“This evolution is a testament to Pat’s legacy, generous supporters from East Tennessee and beyond, and the Pat Summitt Foundation’s ability to inspire others by following in her footsteps and focusing on dreams that unite people and communities,” said the ETF President & CEO Keith Barber. “The East Tennessee Foundation is proud of the tremendous work we’ve accomplished together to make Coach Summitt’s dream a reality. We are confident the Pat Summitt Foundation will keep building on this strong foundation, and we look forward to continuing our relationship as they embark on this exciting new chapter toward greater impact.”
Through this exciting transition, both the ETF and PSF remain committed to working together to uplift and support the communities they serve through philanthropy, ensuring that donors, nonprofits, and the broader community continue to thrive as they work to fulfill their missions.
“We are grateful for the 13 years of philanthropic leadership, investment, and guidance from the East Tennessee Foundation, helping move our mission forward and shaping our evolving vision and impact,” said newly-appointed PSF Executive Director Morgan Vance. “This transition empowers us to continue our work and explore innovative opportunities to serve those battling Alzheimer’s disease, and we look forward to the next phase of our continued partnership.”
PSF co-founder, board member, and Pat Summitt protégé Danielle Donehew also applauded the milestone.
“This is a powerful day and a crucial step toward fulfilling Coach Summitt’s long-term vision for the future of the Pat Summitt Foundation,” said Donehew, who currently serves as Executive Director of the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association. “Just like success in basketball, talent, teamwork, and dedication to the mission have made this milestone possible. We appreciate the East Tennessee Foundation’s encouragement of our shared goal to make lives better and communities stronger through philanthropy, and we are excited that the ball is in our court to lead the fight against Alzheimer’s.”
For the ETF media inquiries, please contact Ashley Copeland, Director of Marketing & Community Relations, at 423-745-3235 or ac*******@*tf.org.
About East Tennessee Foundation
The East Tennessee Foundation (ETF) is a 501(c)(3) public charity and nationally accredited community foundation focused on serving a 25-county region in East Tennessee. As a community foundation, the ETF operates as a collection of about 500 distinct charitable funds and eight supporting organizations established by individuals, families, businesses and other nonprofits. The ETF builds endowments, creating a permanent source of philanthropic funding. For more information, visit www.easttennesseefoundation.org, or follow @easttennesseefoundation on LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, and Meta. For ETF media inquiries, please contact Ashley Copeland, Director of Marketing & Community Relations, at 423-745-3235 or ac*******@*tf.org.
About Pat Summitt Foundation
The Pat Summitt Foundation was established by Pat and Tyler Summitt in November 2011. Its mission is to advance research for treatment and a cure, provide care and support for patients and caregivers, and educate the public on Alzheimer’s disease. To learn more, please visit www.patsummitt.org, like the foundation on facebook.com/webackpat, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram @webackpat. For more information about PSF, visit the PSF’s website at patsummitt.org. For media inquiries for the PSF, please contact Morgan Vance, PSF Executive Director, at 865-254-0048 or mv****@********tt.org