The Belk Foundation announced a $100,000 pledge to Cumberland University in Lebanon on Thursday to support its $50 million “Campaign for Cumberland” capital campaign.

The pledge will be paid in equal installments over five years.

Jeff Perry, store manager of Belk of Providence MarketPlace in Mt. Juliet, recently presented the first $20,000 check on behalf of The Belk Foundation to Campaign Chairman and University Trustee W.P. Bone III.

The “Campaign for Cumberland” will completely modernize the university’s campus with new academic and student life facilities and bolster the university’s endowment. The $3 million Café project will provide students, faculty and staff a place to convene for study sessions, meetings, meals and entertainment. The facility will also offer ample meeting space for a number of local community organizations.
“The Belk Foundation is pleased to announce this pledge to support the university’s capital campaign and specifically to help fund the development of ‘The Café’ student center and community meeting facility,” said Paul Wyche, trustee of The Belk Foundation. “This will be a wonderful addition to the campus that will enhance both student and community life at the university.”

“Across campus and throughout the community, there is a tremendous amount of excitement surrounding this capital campaign,” said Cumberland University President Dr. Harvill C. Eaton. “Words cannot express how truly grateful we are to have the support of The Belk Foundation in the development of The Café. Their generous gift will leave an indelible mark on Cumberland University and the entire community.”

For more information about The Belk Foundation, contact Susan Blount, foundation administrator, at (704) 426-8396 or Wyche, Foundation trustee, at (704) 426-8404.