Calvin University, a private Christian university in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has announced a $15 million gift from an alumnus who wishes to remain anonymous in support of efforts to launch a school of health.

The lead gift in the project will be used to support leadership and academic personnel, develop state-of-the-art laboratories, and expand opportunities at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including training for students who are not pursuing a degree. A steering committee of faculty, staff, and administrators is working to define the full scope of the school, which will include the disciplines of nursing, kinesiology, exercise science, speech pathology and audiology, and public health. Over the next few months, the committee will continue assessing market demand and bring recommendations for new program offerings.

"Everywhere we see growing demand for quality health sciences education," said Calvin University president Michael Le Roy. "We are deeply grateful for the vision that prompts this outstanding gift. Not only will it allow us to significantly expand our programs, but it will also create additional pathways for students who feel called to serve in one of the health professions."