First Lady Melania Trump and LSU Announce $7.2 Million Endowment for Foster Care Scholarships
First Lady Melania Trump announced a $7.2 million Fostering the Future Endowment Fund at Louisiana State University (LSU) on November 7, 2026, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This initiative aims to provide permanent scholarships for LSU students who have experienced the foster care system. The announcement took place before the LSU Tigers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide football game. The endowment, which exceeded the original announcement by $2.2 million, will cover tuition, fees, books, and room and board for the Fostering the Future scholars at LSU. Currently, 14 students at LSU are receiving funding through this program. The MMR Group, a local electrical and instruments contractor, committed $5 million to the fund, with additional contributions from other LSU Foundation donors. LSU President Wade Rousse presented Mrs. Trump with an LSU helmet featuring the Be Best Fostering the Future logo, which LSU players wore during the game.
