Historic $50 Million Donation Boosts Scholarships in Marine Sciences at William & Mary
A Landmark Investment in Marine Science Education
In a major development for environmental education, the Batten School of William & Mary has received the most significant scholarship donation in its history—a remarkable $50 million gift from alumnus Dr. R. Todd Stravitz '82 and the Brunckhorst Foundations. This donation is not only the largest ever for the school's coastal and marine sciences program but also stands as a national first in its commitment to funding educational advancement in these crucial disciplines.
This historic donation comes at a pivotal moment when the world faces pressing environmental challenges such as rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and environmental degradation. The R. Todd Stravitz Scholars Program aims to provide comprehensive financial support to students enrolled in the newly launched undergraduate degree in Coastal and Marine Sciences at William & Mary.
"We are tremendously grateful to Dr. Stravitz and the Brunckhorst Foundations," stated Katherine A. Rowe, President of William & Mary. "This gift removes financial barriers, enabling the brightest minds to access the learning and tools necessary to tackle our planet's urgent problems. These future pioneers will develop solutions that preserve ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide."
This announcement builds upon a prior $100 million donation from Jane Batten HON '17, L.H.D. '19 in July 2024, which was aimed at establishing the Batten School of Coastal and Marine Sciences. The latest donation will coincide with the introduction of Virginia's first public undergraduate degree in these fields, recently approved by the Virginia State Council of Higher Education.
The inaugural class of selected students is set to begin in the fall, embarking on an immersive semester experience that will allow them to take courses on the campuses of both the Batten School and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS).
Derek Aday, Dean of the Batten School and Director of VIMS, remarked, "This donation aims to fund the individuals who will address tomorrow's problems. At William & Mary, we equip students with the necessary skills to devise practical solutions to some of the greatest challenges of our time. This investment allows our students to play a leading role where the world needs them most."
Reflecting on his time as a student, Dr. Stravitz noted, "When I was in school, such a degree did not exist, and I want to create the pathway that enables today’s students to experience the best that William & Mary has to offer, so they are prepared to face the greatest challenges of their generation. Our best hope for solving the environmental crises we face is to educate young people to care for and improve our planet. Programs like this are essential for our future, and I am honored to support this vital mission."
The Brunckhorst Foundations are dedicated to advancing significant global causes, notably in medical research and environmental sustainability. By emphasizing innovative solutions and initiatives, these foundations have become vital partners in supporting the efforts of the Batten School and VIMS in promoting resilience, conservation, and education over the years.
Peggy Agouris, Provost, remarked, "Generations of students will benefit from this extraordinary gift. It paves the way for new scholars to deepen their expertise in these essential research areas and become part of the vibrant academic community at William & Mary's Batten School and VIMS. Thanks to the generosity of Dr. Stravitz and the Brunckhorst Foundations, incredible opportunities await us."
This transformative donation coincides with the commencement of William & Mary’s Year of the Environment, a campaign to unite the campus community in a shared commitment to protecting the environment and the communities that rely on it. Throughout the year, efforts to promote sustainability and conservation will take center stage on campus, strengthening the university's impact on the world.
For more information on how you can support this initiative, please visit our website.