The Oval Council is a distinguished giving society honoring Fisk University’s most loyal and generous supporters. With leadership-level gifts, members drive transformative change across campus and create opportunities for future generations of scholars.
The Oval Council is a distinguished giving society made up of donors who are deeply committed to Fisk University’s mission and long-term success. Named in honor of the historic Fisk University Oval—a place where students have gathered, protested, celebrated, and dreamed for generations—the Council represents those who stand at the heart of progress.
Members of the Oval Council play a vital role in sustaining Fisk’s legacy of excellence by making annual leadership gifts that directly impact students, faculty, and the university’s future. Their generosity ensures that Fisk can continue to provide a transformative education, foster innovation, and remain a leader in social justice, scholarship, and service.
As a member of the Oval Council, you are part of a forward-thinking community that believes in the power of access, opportunity, and legacy. Your support helps bridge the gap between promise and achievement—ensuring that today’s students have every resource they need to thrive.
Together, Oval Council donors are building something enduring: a stronger Fisk, a brighter future, and a legacy that honors all who have walked the path before.
“The Oval Council is a community of change-makers ensuring the legacy of Fisk continues to thrive.”
– Dr. Agenia W. Clark, President
*This tier level is designated for alumni who are 10 years out from graduation.
When you join the Oval Council, you become part of a powerful community committed to shaping the future of Fisk University. Your generosity plays a direct role in creating access to a world-class education for students who are driven to lead, serve, and make a difference.
Every Oval Council gift drives academic excellence—enhancing classroom resources, strengthening programs, and supporting faculty innovation that keeps Fisk at the forefront of higher education. Your generosity also helps reduce financial barriers, giving students and their families the peace of mind to focus fully on learning, growth, and success.
Beyond academics, your support helps cultivate a vibrant campus experience—enriching student life, expanding leadership opportunities, and ensuring holistic development. It also plays a vital role in preserving and advancing Fisk’s historic legacy while preparing the university for a bold future.
As a member of the Oval Council, you are not only investing in students—you are investing in progress, equity, and excellence. Your gift empowers the next generation of scholars, scientists, artists, and advocates who will leave their mark on the world.
Because of you, students walk through our gates with hope—and walk across the graduation stage with purpose. Together, we are building a legacy of impact that extends far beyond campus.
Thank you for believing in Fisk and for making a meaningful difference.
The Oval Council is Fisk University’s premier leadership giving society, honoring those who demonstrate exceptional philanthropic commitment and generosity. Membership is by invitation and extended to donors whose annual gift of $5,000 or more to the Fisk Fund advances Fisk’s mission, strengthens academic excellence, and fuels student success through unrestricted, high-impact support.
Named for Fisk’s historic campus landmark — the Oval — this distinguished society symbolizes community, tradition, and unity. The Oval Council embodies these values through the shared leadership and generosity of its members, whose dedicated support of the Fisk Fund helps shape the future of Fisk University and create opportunities for generations of scholars.
Membership in the Oval Council is by invitation only and reflects a donor’s demonstrated philanthropic leadership and commitment to Fisk University’s mission.
Eligibility is based on a donor’s giving history and sustained support of the Fisk Fund, the University’s primary source of unrestricted funding that directly advances student success, academic excellence, and campus priorities. Invitations are extended to those who:
Yes. Membership in the Oval Council is invitation-based and reviewed annually on a rolling, year-to-date basis beginning February 2026, the founding year of the society.
To remain active and continue enjoying the benefits of membership, donors must contribute a minimum of $5,000 or more each year to the Fisk Fund within their annual membership period. Sustained leadership support ensures the Fisk Fund can provide immediate, unrestricted resources that strengthen academic programs, enhance the student experience, and address the University’s highest priorities.
No. The Oval Council does not replace the Fisk Gift Societies.
The Oval Council is a distinguished, invitation-only leadership giving society that honors Fisk’s most loyal and generous supporters. Members make annual leadership-level contributions of $5,000 or more specifically to the Fisk Fund, helping drive transformative change across campus and create opportunities for future generations of scholars.
The Fisk Gift Societies, by contrast, are recognition-based tiers that acknowledge donors at various giving levels across any fund or designation at the University.
Have a question about the Oval Council? We're here to help!
Samantha Camilo
Associate Director of Development
scamilo@fisk.edu
615-329-8581
