NASHVILLE (AP) — Tennessee State University surpassed its goal to raise $1 million during the month of February, the school said.

The total collected hours before the deadline on Saturday was $1.7 million, the university said in a news release.

The funds will provide merit- and need-based scholarships for students. Approximately 500 scholarships averaging $2,000 will be awarded to students. About 90 percent of TSU students receive some form of financial aid, the release said.

"This wouldn't be possible without the unprecedented support of alumni, faculty, staff and our corporate partner, the Nashville Predators, along with the faith-based community and many others," university President Glenda Glover said in the release.

The National Hockey League's Nashville Predators organization joined with the university in the campaign and made the first donation. The team also provided $100,000 of in-kind assets for public awareness. The initiative includes providing TSU students with internships, the school said.