The University of Arizona has announced a $25 million commitment from William A. Franke, his wife, Carolyn, and the Franke family in support of the Honors College.

The college will be renamed the W.A. Franke Honors College in recognition of the gift, which will support student scholarships, stipends to defray the cost of living in the Honors Village, and study abroad opportunities. In addition, the gift will establish an endowed chair for the college's dean and a new Honors Faculty Academy, which will provide top faculty members with financial rewards for research and teaching purposes.

"I want the students from the Honors College to feel they have the leadership skill set to take their natural ability, which has been fine-tuned, and make a difference," said Franke. "Whether they're going into science, education, or business, there will be opportunities for them to provide a point of view and to help develop perspective with the communities they're engaged with."

"The University of Arizona's mission is multifaceted. In addition to helping students acquire the knowledge and skills they need for their future careers, we are committed to preparing them to be the leaders and problem-solvers of the future," said University of Arizona president Robert C. Robbins. "We are very proud of what we have built at the Honors Village, and this investment from the Franke family will ensure that finances are not an obstacle for bright students who choose to begin their journey in higher education at the University of Arizona. I am incredibly grateful to the Frankes for their generosity, and I am proud the college will bear their name."

(Photo credit: Chris Richards)