UNC Asheville Receives Largest Private Gift in University History

UNC Asheville is proud to announce the largest private contribution in its history, a $5 million gift that will transform the University’s approach to student access, success, and athletic excellence. This landmark investment will dramatically expand the Gateway Scholars program, the University’s student support programs, and the Janet R. Cone Athletics Endowment, reinforcing UNC Asheville’s commitment to student achievement both in and out of the classroom.

Transforming Access Through the Gateway Scholars Program

At the heart of this gift is a bold expansion of the Gateway Scholars program, a comprehensive model designed to remove financial and structural barriers for high-potential students with significant levels of financial need. The Gateway Scholars program aims to flip the script for these students by ensuring their graduation rate is equal to that of all students.

Going far beyond traditional scholarship aid, Gateway Scholars receive full coverage of tuition and fees, housing, meals, and additional support to address both anticipated and unanticipated needs. Gateway Scholars have access to robust academic support services, health insurance, transportation assistance, and stipends for internships, study abroad programs, and professional development opportunities.

Gateway Scholars also benefit from robust wraparound services, including mentorship, career readiness training, and financial literacy education. Designed as a cohort-based experience, the program builds a strong sense of belonging and community, critical factors for retention, academic success, and post-graduate achievement.

“This gift reflects a profound belief in our students and our mission,” said Regine Criser, director of student success. “It enables us to deliver the kind of targeted, holistic support that empowers students to succeed, especially when they face unexpected challenges.”

Elevating Student Success Initiatives

The impact of this transformative gift extends across campus, accelerating university-wide initiatives that promote student achievement and persistence:

• Expansion of the Peer Mentors program, enabling more students to access vital peer-to-peer support.
• Expansion of the Student Community Coordinator Program to additional academic departments.
• Enhancement of the Student Success Summer Institute, equipping faculty with innovative tools to support today’s learners.
• Investment in the First Year Seminar program, introducing new programming, instructional approaches, and faculty support to improve outcomes for vulnerable student populations.

The Very Best Type of Challenge

The anonymous donors behind this transformative gift hope to inspire others to invest in high-need students. They are offering matching funds for gifts that create new endowed Gateway Scholarship funds, increasing the impact of each donor’s support.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for like-minded philanthropists to amplify their giving,” said Kirk Swenson, vice chancellor for university advancement. “By leveraging the matching funds on offer, we can secure additional support and put those gifts to immediate use, transforming the lives of students with the greatest need.”

Anyone interested in participating in this challenge or learning more is encouraged to contact Kirk Swenson at kswenson@unca.edu.

Strengthening Bulldog Athletics

To honor the extraordinary vision and service of UNC Asheville’s long-serving Director of Athletics, Janet Cone, a portion of this gift will also support the Janet R. Cone Athletics Endowment. This endowment represents a significant investment in the future of Bulldog Athletics, ensuring that student-athletes continue to compete at the highest level while upholding the ideals of the scholar-athlete – excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.

A Campaign for the Next Century

This historic gift comes at a pivotal moment as UNC Asheville launches the public phase of its Centennial Campaign to raise $100 million by its 100th year. The campaign focuses on transformational philanthropic investments in student success, academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement.

“This extraordinary gift exemplifies the type of visionary philanthropy that will define our second century,” said Chancellor Kimberly van Noort. “It reflects a powerful belief in the promise of UNC Asheville and in the students who will shape the future of our region and our world.”