Denison University in Granville, Ohio, has announced a $21 million gift from alumni Teckie and Don Shackelford to endow scholarships for area students.

The gift builds on the couple’s longstanding commitment to the university, including its partnership with I Know I Can, which Teckie Shackelford serves as board chair emerita. Each year, up to 20 students from Columbus City Schools will receive full-tuition scholarships to attend Denison through the program. The I Know I Can partnership is one of four scholarship programs the Shackelfords have set up at Denison. Currently, 84 students at Denison have scholarships from one of the programs.

“Denison holds a cherished place in our hearts and has played a prominent role in our family’s story for generations,” said Teckie Shackelford, who helped co-found I Know I Can in 1988. “As proud, lifelong residents of central Ohio, we care deeply about promoting education in the local community. We are passionate champions for Columbus City Schools and I Know I Can.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Anchiy)