The First Horizon Foundation recently awarded Lee University’s Center for English Language and Literacy (CELL) a $1000 grant.  

“The CELL program continues to grow not only in the number of students but also in the quality of language teaching we provide,” said Dr. Christopher Blake, director of Lee’s CELL. “I am very grateful to First Horizon for their generous support which is helping to make all of this possible.” 

CELL has served the immigrant population in the Greater Cleveland Community since 2011. The money provided through the First Horizon Foundation will fund the cost of various materials, supplies, and staffing.  

“The First Horizon Foundation is deeply committed to empowering our community through education and access to resources,” said Logan Young, market president of First Horizon. “Supporting the CELL program aligns perfectly with our mission to foster growth and opportunities for individuals to thrive. We are proud to partner with Lee University and the CELL center and contribute to their vital work, helping individuals strengthen their language skills and achieve greater success in their personal and professional lives.” 

Founded in 1993, the First Horizon Foundation is the private charitable foundation of First Horizon National Corp. Since its inception, their foundation has donated more than $100 million to meet community needs. The foundation has been honored for leadership in philanthropy and community involvement and recognized by the American Bankers Association for their outstanding work in the community.  

CELL offers literacy and conversation classes to non-English speakers who want to learn more about the English language. The literacy program prepares students of all skill levels to interact with the written word in English. The conversation program prepares students to find their voice and communicate their ideas in English. All classes are led by student instructors from Lee University and focus on providing quality interaction with authentic and useful topics. 

To learn more about the First Horizon Foundation, visit firsthorizonfoundation.com/.  

For more information on CELL, visit leecell.org/.