Philanthropists Ronda Stryker and William Johnston Make Monumental $100 Million Donation to Spelman College, Advancing Education and Opportunities for Young Women

A Transformative Gift to Empower the Next Generation of Leaders

In a landmark moment for higher education and social justice, prominent businesswoman and philanthropist Ronda Stryker, along with her husband, William Johnston, Chairman of Greenleaf Trust, have bestowed a transformative $100 million donation upon Spelman College. This remarkable gift stands as the largest single donation in the institution’s history, propelling Spelman College to new heights of academic excellence and opportunity for young women.

A Legacy of Philanthropy and a Passion for Educational Equity

Ronda Stryker, a dedicated trustee of Spelman College since 1997, exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy and educational empowerment. Her unwavering support for the college reflects her profound belief in the transformative power of education, particularly for young women from diverse backgrounds. As the largest individual shareholder of Stryker Corporation, a Kalamazoo-based medical technology company, and as Vice Chair and Director of Greenleaf Trust, Stryker has consistently demonstrated her commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Spelman College: A Beacon of Academic Excellence and Empowerment

Founded in 1881, Spelman College stands as a beacon of academic excellence and empowerment for young women. With a student body of approximately 2,300, the college has earned a stellar reputation as a private, historically Black women’s liberal arts institution. Spelman’s unwavering commitment to academic rigor, social justice, and leadership development has earned it the distinction of being ranked number one among HBCUs for 17 consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report. The college also holds the remarkable distinction of graduating the highest number of Black women who go on to earn doctorate degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields.

A Gift that Will Shape the Future of Spelman College

The $100 million donation from Ronda Stryker and William Johnston will have a profound impact on the future of Spelman College. The gift will be strategically allocated to support various initiatives that align with the college’s mission and strategic goals.

• $75 Million for Endowed Student Scholarships: This substantial allocation will create a permanent endowment to support scholarships for deserving students, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their pursuit of higher education. This investment in student success will alleviate the financial burden for many aspiring young women, enabling them to focus on their academic pursuits and personal growth.
• $25 Million for Academic Focus on Public Policy and Democracy: Recognizing the critical need for informed and engaged citizens, Spelman College will dedicate a portion of the donation to developing an academic focus on public policy and democracy. This investment will support the creation of new courses, research opportunities, and experiential learning programs that will equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact on their communities and the world.
• Student Housing Improvements: The donation will also be used to enhance student housing facilities, creating more comfortable and conducive living environments for students. This investment in student life will foster a sense of community and belonging, contributing to the overall well-being and success of students.
• Flexible Funding for Critical Strategic Needs: Additionally, a portion of the donation will be set aside as flexible funding to address unforeseen needs and emerging opportunities that may arise in the future. This flexibility will allow Spelman College to respond swiftly to changing circumstances and seize opportunities that align with its mission and strategic priorities.

A Transformational Gift with Far-Reaching Impact

The $100 million donation from Ronda Stryker and William Johnston is a transformative gift that will have a profound and lasting impact on Spelman College and the lives of countless young women. It is a testament to their unwavering commitment to educational excellence, social justice, and the empowerment of women.

Lovette Russell, Chair of the Spelman College Board, expressed her gratitude and awe at the generosity of the donors, stating, “We are so grateful, proud, and inspired by this phenomenal gift. It is truly a transformational gift to any institution, period.”

Dr. Helene Gayle, President of Spelman College, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the significance of this donation in advancing the college’s mission. “This gift is a critical step in our school’s mission to eliminate financial barriers to starting and finishing a Spelman education,” she said. “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.”

The donation from Ronda Stryker and William Johnston is a shining example of philanthropy at its best. It is a testament to their belief in the power of education to transform lives and their commitment to creating a more just and equitable society. Spelman College is deeply grateful for this extraordinary gift and looks forward to using it to further its mission of educating and empowering young women to make a positive impact on the world.

Call to Action: Join Ronda Stryker and William Johnston in their commitment to educational excellence and social justice. Support Spelman College’s mission of empowering young women to become leaders and change-makers by making a donation today. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of young women and help them achieve their full potential.