Bowling Green State University (BGSU) has announced a $121 million gift from Bob Thompson (’55, ’06 Hon.) and his wife, Ellen (’54, ’06 Hon.), through the Thompson Foundation in support of scholarships, with the possibility of an additional $30 million.

The largest gift for student scholarships in university and Ohio history will support BGSU’s Thompson Working Families Scholarship program, expanding its efforts into the next decade. If the program is extended to 2035, the Thompsons’ contributions to scholarships at BGSU will reach approximately $250 million. Created in 2014, the program has awarded scholarships to 1,910 students. The latest gift could increase the number of Thompson Scholars to more than 6,200 students.

Scholars annually receive $11,000 each, which covers most of their tuition while still requiring a financial investment in earning their degree. Thompson Scholars also must commit to accountability metrics from the foundation, such as maintaining academic progress and completing required community service hours.

“When we first created this scholarship program, we wanted to make sure the dollars were put to good use with accountability throughout the entire process,” said Bob Thompson. “BGSU has proven this accountability approach works, and we are excited to publicly express our intentions to expand and extend this program into the next decade.  Ellen and I are pleased to support BGSU students who have financial need and are willing to work hard at a university that has proven its ability to support them and match these scholarship dollars.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/RealPeopleGroup)