The University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, has announced a $20 million gift from alumnus John Monahan (’73) for arts education.

The largest gift in the school’s history—to be distributed over several years—will enhance arts programming and education and expand visual exhibits, creative programming, and artistic experiences across the university, especially in the departments of art history, emerging media, communication studies, and music, film, and creative enterprise. It will also be used to recruit and retain faculty, as well as provide scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing degrees in art history, digital media arts, creative writing, film studies, and music.

“This gift will have a powerful impact on future generations of St. Thomas students, and it will strengthen our ability to educate the whole person,” said University of St. Thomas president Rob Vischer. “Through John Monahan’s generosity, we are expanding opportunities for our students to develop a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives as they engage the broader world through an appreciation for beauty and a cultivation of their own creativity. We are profoundly grateful for this investment in our students, who will be empowered to advance the common good in innovative and inspired ways.” 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/skynesher)