December 19, 2008

Despite Downturn, Some Colleges Continue to Receive Major Gifts

By David Shieh

Twenty million to Vanderbilt University for financial aid. Seventeen million to Washington and Lee University for faculty programs. Ten million to the State University of New York at Stony Brook for science research.

Donations of such magnitude—all announced in December—may seem unfathomable in the current economic climate, but a handful of colleges and universities have continued to receive them. What's their secret?

H.F. (Gerry) Lenfest, whose $17-million

Digital or Print Subscription

Web Pass

Already have an account? Log In Now.