Our History
Founded in 1989, ADF is a major collaboration between schools, businesses, and the community, and is a vehicle for private sector leadership in advancing public education. The first Campaign for Academic Excellence was launched in 1989 and raised $2.7 million. A second Campaign was launched in 1999 to celebrate ten years of successful programs. It raised an additional $1.3 million. Today, the ADF endowment stands at $4.6 million and is permanently managed by the Baton Rouge Area Foundation. The earnings from the endowment and additional community support fund ADF grants, programs and special projects.

Our Organization
An active, 25 member board composed of representatives from business, education, and industry guides the Academic Distinction Fund. Because ADF is an independent discretionary fund, no school district representative serves on the board other than the Superintendent.