Warren Wilson College Receives Historic $10 Million Gift
Swannanoa, N.C. – Big news has just come in from Warren Wilson College, where a remarkable $10 million donation has been made. This is not just any donation; it’s the largest in the college’s history! The anonymous donors, who share a passion for education and environmental sustainability, have chosen to invest significantly in the future of this unique institution.
A Vote of Confidence
Warren Wilson’s President, Dr. Damián J. Fernández, who took the helm just four months ago, expressed his gratitude, stating, “These donors’ generosity is inspiring. Their gift will be instrumental in advancing our hands-on, action-based education, which focuses on real-world problem solving and empowers graduates to live lives of purpose in service to the common good.” This donation gives the college’s endowment a thrilling boost of nearly 20%, and the energy on campus is palpable!
Recent Initiatives at Warren Wilson
Since the transition of leadership, Warren Wilson College has hit the ground running. Here are some highlights of what they have accomplished in less than half a year:
- Strategic Action Framework: A new roadmap titled “Our Progressive Promise: Education in Action for the Common Good” has been developed. This framework aims to advance access and excellence in hands-on, experiential education.
- Redefined Curriculum: Warren Wilson now proudly leads as the first college in the U.S. to guarantee students hands-on, community-engaged courses, along with professional experiences and unique capstone projects.
- Conservation Efforts: Collaborating with the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, the college has established land conservation easements that will permanently protect 600 acres of its land, which features some of the world’s most biologically diverse temperate forests.
- New Master’s Program: A low-residency Masters of Science in Applied Climate Studies has been created, further enhancing the college’s already strong commitment to addressing climate change.
- Climate Action Now Initiative: This initiative invites students to take part in tackling climate change and offers exciting research opportunities related to the community’s recovery from Hurricane Helene.
- Tuition Reduction: In a bid to make education more accessible, the college will lower tuition by 40% to $25,500 for Fall 2025, showcasing its commitment to financial accessibility for all students.
- Reimagining Work College Role: As one of only eight federally-recognized work colleges, the institution is rethinking its approach to the Work Program, ensuring alignment with employer needs and enhancing career readiness.
- Acknowledgements: Recently, Warren Wilson has earned national honors for its service learning and community engagement efforts, including recognition from Second Nature and U.S. News and World Report.
Looking Ahead
Dr. Fernández emphasized the importance of this gift, saying, “With this transformative investment, we are emboldened to continue our work to deepen our academic strengths and prepare students to lead positive change.”
The Chair of the Board of Trustees, Jean Wright Veilleux, added, “Since its founding as the Asheville Farm School in 1894, Warren Wilson has demonstrated that a small college can have a big impact on students, communities, and the world.” This gift from generous supporters will undoubtedly amplify the college’s commitment to impactful, hands-on education paired with a strong focus on sustainability.
As Warren Wilson College moves forward, the community and its students can look forward to exciting developments and opportunities that will not only enrich their education but also empower them to contribute positively to the world.
