Spelman College

Spelman College Makes History with $100 Million Donation

Discover the story behind the largest single donation to an HBCU ever!

Spelman College in Atlanta is making headlines with a monumental $100 million donation, believed to be the largest single gift ever received by a historically Black college or university (HBCU). The generous contribution comes from Ronda Stryker, Spelman's longest-serving trustee, and her husband William Johnston, the chairman of Greenleaf Trust. The students' heartfelt ovation filled the chapel with gratitude, as the funds will be used to endow scholarships, enhance student housing, and address various college needs.

This historic donation marks a significant milestone for Spelman College, a private women's institution dedicated to empowering young women through education and innovation. The $100 million gift is set to secure the future of generations of female scholars who walk the campus each day, highlighting the importance of philanthropy in supporting educational institutions like Spelman. The impact of this donation extends beyond the college walls, inspiring hope and opportunities for the wider community.

In a previous act of generosity, Ronda Stryker had donated $70 million to Spelman, including a substantial contribution in 2018 for the Center for Innovation & the Arts. This remarkable philanthropic support underscores the couple's commitment to promoting education and empowering young women through access to quality resources and opportunities. The legacy of this historic $100 million donation will continue to shape the future of Spelman College and pave the way for countless students to pursue their academic dreams and create lasting change in their communities.