$25M Gift Supports Priorities

Williams has received a $25 million gift commitment in support of three major initiatives currently underway on campus: constructing a new museum building, developing a comprehensive plan for athletics and well-being facilities, and endowing the All-Grant financial aid program.

The donors, who wish to remain anonymous, say the gift reflects their desire to support Williams and President Maud S. Mandel’s strategic vision and plan for the college. Says Mandel of the gift: “This remarkably generous commitment sustains our momentum for WCMA, will be a catalyst for financial aid and is foundational for athletics and well-being. It will allow us to build upon areas of excellence that have long defined the college. I could not be more appreciative of this extraordinary investment in Williams.”

Of the donors’ total gift, $10 million will help fund the first freestanding, purpose-built home for the Williams College Museum of Art (WCMA), a primary teaching resource for the college across all disciplines and home to more than 15,000 works.

Another $10 million will support planning for and early investments in a comprehensive approach to renewing the college’s athletics and well-being facilities.

The remaining $5 million will help endow the college’s All-Grant financial aid program, now in its second year. The first of its kind in the nation, All-Grant replaces traditional loans and work-study requirements with equivalent grants that don’t have to be repaid, furthering the college’s commitment to eliminating economic barriers to a Williams education.