William & Mary's Historic $50 Million Gift for Coastal and Marine Science Scholarships

Historic $50 Million Gift to William & Mary

In a monumental announcement, William & Mary has received a groundbreaking $50 million donation aimed at significantly enhancing scholarship opportunities in coastal and marine sciences. This represents the largest scholarship gift in the university's history and the largest ever granted to a school focused on these critical fields of study. The generous donation is attributed to Dr. R. Todd Stravitz ('82) and the Brunckhorst Foundations, which are noted for their commitment to supporting essential global issues such as environmental sustainability and medical research.

This strategic donation comes at a crucial time when pressing global challenges, including rising sea levels and coastal erosion, threaten billions of lives. The funds will fully support tuition fees through the newly established R. Todd Stravitz Scholars Program, aimed at launching a new Bachelor’s program in Coastal and Marine Sciences at the Batten School. The Batten School is renowned for its innovative approach and is set to roll out Virginia's first public undergraduate degree dedicated to coastal and marine studies, making an indelible impact in environmental education.

The Vision Behind the Gift

President Katherine A. Rowe expressed profound gratitude towards Dr. Stravitz and the Brunckhorst Foundations. She highlighted the initiative's significance in breaking down financial barriers for aspiring students and emphasized its potential to develop the next wave of scholars and leaders who will tackle urgent environmental issues. With the introduction of this program, William & Mary aims to cultivate a generation equipped with the skills needed to address the evolving challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation.

Dr. Stravitz articulated his commitment to ensuring that today’s students are well-prepared for the enormous challenges that lay ahead. He hopes that empowering students through education and engagement will inspire them to become responsible stewards of the planet, thereby creating innovative solutions tailored to meet tomorrow’s ecological crises. “My enrollment at William & Mary did not offer such a degree, and I wish to pave the way for today’s students to enjoy the best that the university has to offer,” he remarked.

Impact and Future Opportunities

This scholarship initiative is built on the momentum of a previous $100 million donation made by Jane Batten (HON '17, L.H.D. '19) in July 2024, which established the Batten School of Coastal and Marine Sciences. Moreover, this milestone announcement coincides with the inaugural implementation of the William & Mary Year of the Environment, an initiative aimed at unifying the university community in addressing shared commitments to environmental protection and sustainability.

With the first cohort of selected students set to commence their studies this fall, it is anticipated that they will benefit from immersive academic experiences and hands-on learning opportunities at VIMS (Virginia Institute of Marine Science). The program promises rigorous coursework complemented by practical training, positioning graduates to lead efforts in research, conservation, and policy-making in relation to coastal and marine ecosystems.

The Brunckhorst Foundations have been instrumental in supporting the Batten School in fostering resilience, conservation, and educational efforts in recent years. This ongoing partnership is pivotal for broadening the influence of the school and enriching its academic community.

In summary, the transformative $50 million gift signifies a significant leap toward academic excellence in coastal and marine sciences. It underscores the vital role educational institutions play in combating environmental challenges and nurturing future leaders committed to safeguarding our planet. Interested individuals are encouraged to learn more about supporting these efforts through the university's platform.

By capitalizing on philanthropic investments in education, William & Mary is not only addressing immediate needs but also preparing for a sustainable future where students can thrive as innovative problem-solvers in the face of climate change.