Bennington College in Bennington, Vermont, has announced a $1 million pledge from alumna Barbara "Bobby" Ushkow Deane and her husband, Maurice, for the final phase of the renovation of a former stable turned performance and concert space.

The Deane Carriage Barn, the renovation of which has been funded by the couple over the past five years, accommodates concerts, exhibitions, readings, receptions, and other events on campus. The Deanes' latest pledge comes on the heels of several major gifts to the small liberal arts college supporting the refurbishment of its historic campus and the establishment of new academic initiatives.

"My experience at Bennington College changed my life and helped me to become the person I am today," said Bobby Deane, a Bennington trustee since 1975 and currently board vice chair. "With my giving, I hope to repay some of what I have gained so that future students will be able to have the opportunities I had."