Spelman College receives $100 million donation, the highest in the college’s history

Spelman College has received its largest donation of $100 million from businesswoman and philanthropist Ronda Stryker and her husband, William Johnston, the chairman of Greenleaf Trust.

$100 million donation for Spelman is a blessing

The $100 million comes as the nation’s oldest historically Black college for women celebrates 100 years since its official name change from Spelman Baptist Seminary in Sept. 1924.

The college says the gift will help retain the best and brightest students by eliminating financial barriers during the admission process.

“We are invigorated and inspired by this incredible act of generosity,” said Dr. Helene Gayle, president of Spelman College during an interview on CBS Mornings.

“This gift is a critical step in our school’s mission to eliminate financial barriers to starting and finishing a Spelman education. We can’t thank Ronda Stryker enough for her selflessness and support as both a trustee and friend. There’s no doubt that Spelman College is better because of her.”

Spelman is Top ranked

Spelman College has been ranked as the #1 Historically Black College and / or University by U.S. News for 17 consecutive years.

The college has a variety of degree/major offerings but they produce the most graduates who pursue a PhD in science, technology, engineering or math, according to The National Science Foundation.

About Ronda Stryker

Ronda Stryker is an American billionaire heiress and granddaughter of Homer Stryker, an orthopedic surgeon and founder of Stryker Corporation.