TOWSON, MD—Goucher College has received a $55 million bequest from alumna Anica Donnan Rawnsley ’51, marking the largest gift in the institution’s 140-year history. The bequest will primarily support scholarships, ensuring financial aid and opportunities for future Goucher students.
“Equity, inclusivity, and academic excellence have been at the heart of Goucher’s mission since our founding in 1885,” said Goucher College President Kent Devereaux. He emphasized the impact of the gift, stating, “This transformational gift will ensure that Goucher can fulfill that mission for decades to come.” Currently, 99% of Goucher students receive some form of financial aid or scholarships.
Rawnsley, who passed away, maintained strong ties to Goucher after graduating. She served two eight-year terms on the Goucher College Board of Trustees and became trustee emerita in 1997. Her life was dedicated to education and community service, beginning her career as an elementary school teacher and later volunteering for numerous non-profits. Notably, she became the first female trustee of Washington and Jefferson College in 1975 and received an honorary degree from the institution in 2003.
Fifty million dollars of the bequest will be invested in Goucher’s endowment, currently valued at approximately $235 million. This addition will solidify the endowment’s position among the top 16% of private colleges and universities nationwide. The remaining funds will support ongoing initiatives at the college.
Michele Ewing, Vice President for Advancement at Goucher College, expressed gratitude for Rawnsley’s generosity, hoping it would inspire others to consider supporting the institution.
This bequest follows a record-breaking gift announced last year from Judy C. Lewent ’70 and her husband, Mark Shapiro. Their $10 million pledge supports the construction of Goucher’s new Science Innovation Center.
This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.
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