Spelman College, the women’s school in Atlanta, announced on Thursday that it had received a $100 million donation, which its officials called the largest-ever single gift to a historically Black college.
The gift comes from Ronda E. Stryker, a trustee of Spelman, and her husband, William D. Johnston, chairman of the wealth management company Greenleaf Trust.
Ms. Stryker serves as director of the medical equipment company Stryker Corporation, which was founded by her grandfather.
In an announcement, Spelman College said that $75 million of the gift had been earmarked for scholarships, and that the remaining money would go toward improving student housing and developing an academic focus on public policy and democracy.
In a statement, Spelman’s president, Helene Gayle, said the college was “invigorated and inspired” by the couple’s generosity, adding, “This gift is a critical step in our school’s mission to eliminate financial barriers to starting and finishing a Spelman education.”
Persons:
Stryker, Spelman, William D, Johnston, Helene Gayle, “, ”
Organizations:
Spelman College, Greenleaf Trust, Stryker Corporation, Spelman
Locations:
Atlanta, Ronda