POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — Marist University has received a transformative multimillion-dollar donation from an anonymous alumna, marking one of the largest unrestricted gifts in the institution’s history. The generous contribution will be directed into Marist’s unrestricted giving fund, providing university leaders with the flexibility to allocate resources where they are needed most.
This substantial show of support comes on the heels of a wave of philanthropy aimed at propelling the college’s strategic vision and enriching the student experience.
A Season of Generosity at Marist
This gift is the second multimillion-dollar donation received by Marist in just three months. It follows a major contribution from the McCormick family in February and a highly successful Day of Giving in March, during which alumni and supporters raised $1.2 million for various programs and initiatives.
University President Kevin Weinman expressed deep gratitude and highlighted the significance of this gift for the future of the institution.
“This gift is an investment in Marist’s future and in the students who will go on to make a difference in the world,” Weinman said.
“I am grateful to Marist alumni who believe so deeply in the future of the University. These funds give us the agility to act in real time to enhance academic offerings, support students and faculty, and seize new opportunities that advance our mission.”
Why Unrestricted Gifts Matter
Unlike donations earmarked for specific projects, unrestricted gifts allow university leadership to apply funds wherever they are most urgently needed. This flexibility is invaluable when responding to emerging needs, improving student services, or investing in faculty and research.
These types of donations often support a range of critical priorities, such as:
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Student scholarships
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Faculty development and recruitment
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Campus improvements
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Technological upgrades
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Emergency funds and innovation pilots
Because of their versatility, unrestricted gifts are considered some of the most high-impact contributions a college can receive.
Accelerating the Goals of Marist100
The donation is expected to significantly advance Marist100, the University’s long-term strategic plan that aims to elevate Marist’s position as a leader in higher education. Announced to coincide with the institution’s centennial milestone, Marist100 is focused on three pillars:
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Enhancing the student experience
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Expanding academic programs and interdisciplinary learning
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Increasing the college’s global footprint and outreach
The new gift directly supports these initiatives by providing the resources to expand scholarships, fund faculty-led research, enhance global learning opportunities, and improve the physical and digital learning environment on campus.
A Vote of Confidence from Alumni
Although the donor has chosen to remain anonymous, her connection to Marist and desire to give back speak volumes about the university’s enduring impact on its graduates.
University officials note that alumni contributions—especially of this scale—demonstrate a deep confidence in Marist’s direction and a desire to pay it forward to the next generation of students.
“Alumni giving is a powerful indicator of how much they value their Marist experience,” said a university spokesperson.
“This gift is not just financial support. It’s a message to current and future students that they are part of something larger—a community that believes in their success.”
Looking Ahead
As higher education institutions nationwide continue to grapple with financial uncertainty, rising operational costs, and changing student expectations, gifts like this give Marist a distinct advantage. By reinforcing its financial foundation, the university can remain nimble and responsive, ensuring that its academic and student-focused initiatives stay ahead of the curve.
In the words of President Weinman, “This is a moment of momentum for Marist.” And thanks to the generosity of its alumni, the University appears well-positioned to carry that momentum into its next 100 years.
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