For more than 40 years, the Phoenix Ball has brought the Middle Tennessee community together in support of Cumberland University's mission to transform lives through the power of education. Every Ball is a night of celebration, entertainment, and the chance to give back, but its impact reaches far beyond a single evening.
Thanks to the generosity of Phoenix Ball patrons, Cumberland provides critical financial assistance to students through endowed scholarships and signature programs like Phoenix Promise and Cumberland Promise. Each year, 100% of net proceeds goes directly toward changing the lives of Cumberland students.
Every Phoenix Ball leaves a lasting mark. Among the most enduring are the endowed scholarships created and funded entirely by patrons of the Ball, gifts that will support Cumberland students for generations to come.
1
Phoenix Ball Endowed Scholarship
Created and fully endowed through the continued generosity of Phoenix Ball patrons, this scholarship supports a Cumberland University student from Wilson County.
2
Al Ashworth & Dallus Whitfield Endowed Scholarship
Funded completely by patrons of the Ball, this scholarship honors the memory of Al Ashworth and Dallus Whitfield, two beloved local photographers whose work shaped the look and spirit of many Phoenix Balls.
"Receiving the Al Ashworth and Dallus Whitfield Endowed Scholarship propelled my plans for the future. As I continue to pursue my dreams, and reflect on my own hard work and determination, I am reminded that so many others, even those I don't know, have been a part of my success story."
Lily McPeak, Criminal Justice, Class of 2026, was the first recipient of the Al Ashworth & Dallus Whitfield Endowed Scholarship
1
Access
Access for every student
We believe every student deserves access to higher education, so we work to remove the barriers to earning a four-year degree.
2
Structure
A last-dollar scholarship
After all other grants and aid a student qualifies for are applied, Phoenix Promise covers the remaining balance of tuition and access fees.
3
End Cost
Little or nothing out of pocket
Eligible students pay little or no cost for tuition and access fees, thanks to the support of the Phoenix Ball.
4
Scope
Beyond the associate degree
A program created at CU to support students who continue their education toward a bachelor's degree.
5
Amount
Up to $16,000 in support
Cumberland Promise offers up to $16,000 in scholarship dollars, including a $6,000 grant for associate degree graduates, community college graduates, and transfers.
6
Distribution
Awarded on merit and need
The grant applies regardless of achievement level or field of study, with additional support based on major, graduation GPA, and financial need.
