WINONA/MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Just weeks after announcing a record $25 million gift commitment, Saint Mary’s University has received a new gift of $4.5 million.
“Two gifts of this importance in such a short amount of time is extraordinary,” said the Very Rev. James P. Burns, IVD, Ph.D., Saint Mary’s president. “At a time when the value of a higher education is increasingly questioned and enrollment declines are impacting most schools across the nation, I can’t think of a clearer affirmation about the importance of our renewed vision for a Lasallian Catholic educational approach that is preparing students for career success and ethical leadership throughout their lives; an education grounded in a faith-based environment of service to God and humanity. This latest gift validates the work we are doing to stabilize and grow the university while continuing to provide an excellent education and a strong character building experience. We could not be more grateful to this benefactor.”
This new $4.5 million gift, which will be made in 2023 and 2024, will complete fundraising efforts for the renovation of Aquinas Hall, the Winona Campus’ newly transformed state-of-the-art facility for business, science, psychology, and its new nursing program. The $16 million project was completed in 2021.
The most recent benefactors, who wish to remain anonymous, acknowledged the work that Saint Mary’s has undertaken in the last year to reduce spending, right size academic offerings, and set the path for long-term stability. They appreciate that their gift will allow the university to grow in areas most sought after by students and employers while retaining our commitment to a liberal education core for each student.
About Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Grounded in Lasallian Catholic values, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota awakens, nurtures, and empowers learners to ethical lives of service and leadership. Whether in person or online, adult or undergraduate, students are treated with respect, taught with humanity, and supported by faculty and staff committed to their success in programs designed to prepare graduates for today’s and tomorrow’s careers. Founded in 1912 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota enrolls nearly 4,100 students at its undergraduate and graduate programs on campuses in Minneapolis, Rochester, Winona, and online. Saint Mary’s offers a highly personal, real-world-ready educational experience that fully prepares students to work, lead, and serve with character and purpose. Learn more at smumn.edu.