Carnegie Mellon University has announced a $16 million commitment from the Posner Foundation of Pittsburgh.

The gift will establish a $10 million endowment for the Tartan Scholars program, which provides academic, social, and financial support to student leaders from low-resource backgrounds; a $5 million endowment to create the Helen and Henry Posner, Jr. Dean's Chair for the University Libraries, which will provide resources to advance strategic priorities, meet pressing needs and strengthen the CMU Libraries collections; and $1 million toward construction of the new Health, Wellness and Athletics Center, which will house Counseling and Psychological Services, University Health Services, spiritual and religious life and wellness programs, and athletics and recreation.

"Across generations my family has believed in the power of education, including the unique role and impact of libraries," said Henry Posner III. "When deciding where my grandparents' unique collection of books should go, Carnegie Mellon was the clear choice, and we share the university's belief that libraries are essential in inspiring and educating the next generation."

"For more than forty years, the Posner family has championed initiatives that have impacted the entirety of Carnegie Mellon. Their extraordinary vision has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of student support and success at CMU," said Carnegie Mellon president Farnam Jahanian. "This generous gift will continue to build on this legacy by providing talented students the access and tools they need to thrive at CMU. We are all grateful for their continued support and faith in the power of a CMU education."

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