Spelman College, a renowned historically Black women's college in Atlanta, has received a monumental $100 million donation, marking a significant moment in the history of philanthropy for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This extraordinary gift, the largest single donation ever to an HBCU, comes from philanthropists Ronda Stryker and her husband William Johnston, a move that cements their commitment to educational equity and empowerment.
Ronda Stryker, a longstanding member of Spelman's Board of Trustees since 1997, and William Johnston, chairman of the wealth management firm Greenleaf Trust, have been notable for their philanthropic contributions to education and community development. This latest act of generosity to Spelman College is a critical step towards eliminating financial barriers to education at the institution.
Of the total $100 million, a substantial $75 million is earmarked for endowed scholarships, aiming to provide future Spelman students with essential financial support. The remaining $25 million will be strategically invested in various initiatives including the enhancement of student housing, the development of academic programming with a focus on democracy and public policy, and addressing other critical needs of the college.
This donation is not only a testament to the couple's belief in the transformative power of education, particularly for women, but also a reflection of their long-term commitment to Spelman College. Their previous contributions include a $30 million donation in 2018 and the establishment of a $2 million matching fund in 2020, further underscoring their deep connection with the institution.
Spelman College, with this historic gift, not only celebrates a significant financial boost but also reaffirms its mission of providing exceptional education to women of African descent, setting a new precedent in the landscape of higher education philanthropy.
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