Windgate Foundation's Historic $5 Million Donation to Elevate Arts Education at UAPB

Windgate Foundation's Generous Gift to UAPB's Arts Department

In a landmark moment for the arts community, the Windgate Foundation has announced a transformative $5 million donation to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB). This historic gift is set to revolutionize the academic programs within the university’s arts department, creating innovative learning and creative environments for visual artists. Chancellor Anthony Graham made the announcement on October 8, 2025, underscoring this investment as the largest single contribution in UAPB's illustrious history.

A Commitment to the Arts

The investment not only signifies financial support but also reflects a deep commitment to the role of arts in higher education and the cultural fabric of Arkansas. Chancellor Graham expressed profound gratitude towards the Windgate Foundation, highlighting how this donation affirms the critical importance of arts education. “This gift allows us to construct a cutting-edge facility, expand opportunities for creativity, and foster an environment where our students can thrive as scholars, innovators, and cultural leaders,” he stated. The Windgate Foundation's generosity has indeed positioned UAPB to better equip the next generation of artists.

Alumni of UAPB include prominent figures such as co-founder of the AfriCOBRA collective, Jeff Donaldson, Emmy-award winning animator Byron Vaughns, and contemporary artist Kevin Cole, all of whom have played significant roles in the cultural narrative of Arkansas and beyond.