Fresno Unified Announces Amazon as Lead Sponsor for the Foundation for Fresno Unified Schools Kickoff 

Fresno Unified has secured Amazon as the lead sponsor for the 2022 State of Education gala, the official introduction of the new Foundation for Fresno Unified Schools. The foundation’s focus is to raise money for student scholarships. Amazon’s contribution of $30,000 is the largest single donation ever for Fresno Unified scholarships and initiates a new partnership for future programs and career-readiness work between Amazon and Fresno Unified. 

“We are grateful to Amazon not only for its generous contribution that will directly support our graduating students, but for its willingness to partner on future initiatives. Amazon is leading the way as we launch The Foundation for Fresno Unified Schools, a new chapter in our ability to invest in our students and our community’s future,” said Superintendent Bob Nelson.

“Amazon is proud to make a meaningful difference in the cities and towns that our employees and customers call home,” said Sally Kay, Regional Head of Public Policy and External Affairs for Amazon. “As a charter supporter of the Foundation for Fresno Unified Schools, we know that educational and scholarship opportunities for students are transformational and critical in building equitable communities.”

The district has awarded more than $1,500,000 in Fresno Unified Scholarships since the scholarship fund’s launch in 2009. Wendy McCulley, who oversees the district’s Office of Engagement and External Partnerships and is Executive Director of the Foundation, wants to create even more opportunities for students.

“We sincerely thank Amazon for its initial investment in our students,” says Wendy McCulley. “We all recognize that Fresno’s future innovators, builders, owners, workers, voters, and leaders are in our schools. Scholarships are the fuel that helps drive our students’ dreams.”

The Foundation for Fresno Unified Schools is on a mission to ensure every student in the district has the tools and resources to reach their highest potential. As the strategic fundraising partner for Fresno Unified, the foundation is working with schools, the district and the entire community to accelerate progress for students through the funding of highest impact investments.

The State of Education Gala is Thursday, October 6, 2022, at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are now on sale. Sponsorships are available. If you or your business would like to join Amazon in supporting FUSD student scholarships as an Event Sponsor, please contact Josh.Barrera@fresnounified.org.