Kalamazoo College has announced a $30 million gift from an anonymous donor in support of several strategic initiatives.

The largest gift in the college’s 190-year history will support the schools’ plan to construct a new residence hall on campus and the development of student success programs focused on first-generation students. This fall, 30 percent of Kalamazoo College’s first-year students were first-generation. The college also announced the expansion of its Brighter Light Campaign goal from $150 million to raising at least $190 million by September 2024. To date, the campaign has raised more than $180 million.

“This incredibly generous gift will be transformative for K [Kalamazoo],” said Kalamazoo College president Jorge G. Gonzalez. “It will allow us to launch several strategic initiatives that will enhance the college’s ability to fulfill its mission with distinction and prepare K graduates to bring a brighter light to the world. This gift will put us on the path toward creating the campus experience of the future and help us ensure every student at the college is positioned for success. We are so grateful to the donor for this extraordinary investment in K’s future.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Bill Dolak)