“Somewhere inside, we hear a voice. It leads us in the direction of the person we wish to become. But it is up to us whether or not to follow.”

Pat Tillman

Service Beyond Self: Empowering The Next Generation of Leaders

The Pat Tillman Foundation identifies remarkable military service members, veterans and spouses, empowering them with academic scholarships, lifelong leadership development opportunities and a diverse, global community of high-performing mentors and peers. These scholars are making an impact as they lead through action in the fields of healthcare, business, public service, STEM, education and the humanities.

With your help, we empower:
  • Active duty service members
  • Veterans
  • Military spouses

Thanks to you, Tillman Scholars are making an impact in the United States and around the world.

Learn more about the Foundation

What Makes a Tillman Scholar?

Tillman Scholars have served their country and believe their best years of service are ahead of them. They are committed to strengthening communities at home and around the world.

Scholars are chosen based on their:

  • Service: Dedication to service beyond self in and out of uniform
  • Scholarship: A lifelong learner, passionate about intellectual growth
  • Humble Leadership: Selflessly committed to leading by example
  • Impact: Determined to unite others and advance ideas that change the world

Tillman Scholars carry on Pat’s legacy and are making an impact with effects that will ripple outwards for years to come.

Meet the Tillman Scholars

“To err on the side of passion is human and right and the only way I’ll live.”

Pat Tillman

TILLMAN SCHOLARS REDEFINE CHANGE

Every year, the Pat Tillman Foundation receives thousands of applications from remarkable service members, veterans and military spouses nationwide. We choose up to 60 individuals who are looking to change lives, one by one, on the ground.

Meet Our Scholars

Bryan Watson

Navy

Helping to make the world a more resilient and sustainable place.

Read Bryan’s Story

Sarah Abdella-El Kallassy

Marine Corps

Using her experiences to find sustainable solutions to bring peace to the Middle East.

Read Sarah’s Story

Tigon Abalos

Army

Humanitarian providing accessible dental healthcare to those in need.

Read Tigon’s Story

The Tillman Scholar Community

Thanks to the generosity of our investors, we made a $1.3 million lifetime commitment to the 2024 Class of Tillman Scholars.

Discover the impact

Tillman Scholars

Average GPA

Universities

%

Graduation Rate

“LIFE EXPERIENCE IN ANY CAPACITY IS BENEFICIAL. IF YOU LEARNED FROM A SITUATION CONSIDER IT TUITION.”

Laura Tolver

2017 Tillman Scholar | Marine Corps | Rutgers University | DNP

You Can Help Make A Difference.

The Pat Tillman Foundation relies on everyone who believes in empowering selfless leaders. Your contribution helps us honor Pat’s legacy by uniting and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Donate Today