UNC Asheville Receives Landmark $5 Million Private Donation, Launching Centennial Campaign

Asheville --  The University of North Carolina Asheville has announced a historic $5 million private donation, the largest single gift in the institution's history.

This transformative contribution not only marks a significant milestone for the university but also serves as the official public launch of its ambitious Centennial Campaign, aiming to raise $100 million by UNC Asheville's 100th anniversary in 2027.

The anonymous donors, deeply committed to the university's mission and future, have designated their landmark gift to bolster two key areas: student success and Bulldog Athletics.

A substantial portion of the $5 million will be directed towards expanding the highly impactful Gateway Scholars program. This comprehensive initiative provides crucial support to high-potential students with significant financial need, ensuring that deserving individuals have the opportunity to access a transformative UNC Asheville education. The Gateway Scholars program offers a holistic package, often covering the full cost of tuition and fees, housing, meals, and providing additional resources to support students' academic and personal growth. The expansion of this program will enable UNC Asheville to empower more students to overcome financial barriers and achieve their full potential.

Furthermore, a portion of the historic donation will provide vital support to Bulldog Athletics through the Janet R. Cone Athletics Endowment. This investment will contribute to the ongoing success and development of UNC Asheville's student-athletes and athletic programs.

The announcement of this monumental gift coincides with the public unveiling of UNC Asheville's Centennial Campaign: 100 Years, 100 Million Dreams. This ambitious fundraising endeavor seeks to secure $100 million in philanthropic support by 2027, the university's centennial year. The campaign will focus on strategic investments in scholarships, faculty support, innovative programs, and campus enhancements, all aimed at ensuring UNC Asheville's continued excellence and impact for generations to come.

Adding to the excitement, the anonymous donors have also pledged to provide matching funds for future contributions to new endowed Gateway Scholarship funds, offering a powerful incentive for others to join in supporting deserving students.

"This extraordinary act of generosity is truly transformative for UNC Asheville," said [Insert hypothetical quote from UNC Asheville Chancellor here, emphasizing gratitude and impact of the gift]. "This historic donation will directly impact the lives of our students, strengthen our athletic programs, and provide significant momentum for our Centennial Campaign. We are deeply grateful to these visionary donors for their belief in UNC Asheville and their commitment to our future."

The Centennial Campaign will engage alumni, friends, faculty, staff, and community partners in a collective effort to build upon UNC Asheville's legacy of academic excellence and liberal arts education. The campaign's goals reflect the university's commitment to fostering critical thinking, creativity, and engagement, preparing graduates to be leaders and contributors in a complex world.

With this historic donation serving as a powerful catalyst, UNC Asheville embarks on an exciting new chapter, poised to achieve even greater heights in its second century. The Centennial Campaign offers a unique opportunity for individuals to invest in the future of this vital institution and make a lasting difference in the lives of students and the broader community.

Stay tuned for more updates on UNC Asheville's Centennial Campaign and ways to get involved.

WNCTimes

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