Colgate University in Hamilton, New York, has announced commitments from two alumni totaling $35 million.

Daniel Benton, a 1980 graduate and Colgate trustee, pledged $10 million in support of Colgate's vision of becoming the nation's leading liberal arts university, while Robert H. N. Ho, a 1956 graduate and trustee emeritus, confirmed a commitment of $25 million to help the school achieve the goals of its strategic plan, especially as they relate to the sciences. Both men are longtime supporters of the university and have identified its commitment to the liberal arts as fundamental to their success beyond graduation. Ho, chairman of Kyard Ltd., a family company based in Hong Kong, credits his liberal arts education for giving him a "well-rounded world view," while Benton, chairman and chief executive officer of Andor Capital Management, believes the liberal arts are the "key to succeeding in today's global, knowledge-based economy."

"Colgate's strength lies in the strong liberal arts foundation upon which successful, meaningful lives have been built," said Rebecca S. Chopp, the university's president. "We will update the liberal arts skills our students must have to succeed in the 21st century and we will ensure that our students value the art of curiosity and the wonder of discovery."