Consistently ranked as a top ten Regional College in the South by U.S. News and World Report and recognized as a leader in undergraduate learning and research, Catawba College enrolls over 1,200 undergraduate and graduate students. Financial aid is provided to 100% of on-campus undergraduate students, demonstrating Catawba's commitment to promoting access and social mobility.
"Students at Catawba benefit from the personal attention they receive from faculty and staff. They have rich opportunities for personal formation and exploration of vocation," said Constance Rogers-Lowery, Catawba's provost. "This gift advances our college's position as a destination for exceptional and visionary faculty who value this kind of learning community."
One-third of the gift will provide recurring funding to support and enhance Catawba's well-established programs in environment and sustainability as a nationally recognized center of distinction in undergraduate education. Two-thirds of the gift is dedicated to supporting strategic initiatives, strengthening student scholarships, enhancing student success programming, promoting a thriving workplace, and investing in faculty excellence.
"This is cause for celebration for our entire community," Catawba's vice president of development, Meg Dees, said. "The donor hopes this gift will inspire and catalyze additional philanthropic contributions that support Catawba's high-impact programs and initiatives."
"It is impossible to adequately express our gratitude," added Nelson. "Our donor's generosity funds our imagination, enabling us to provide a liberal arts education that frees students to create the world where we all want to live."
Earlier this year, Catawba received gifts totaling $18M to retire the entirety of the college's debt. Catawba's endowment per student is one of the highest among private colleges and universities in the South, with the total endowment now exceeding $300 million.
About Catawba College
Founded in 1851, Catawba College is a four-year, private, liberal arts college conveniently located in Salisbury, NC. Ranked as one of the best regional colleges in the South, Catawba is a learning community providing students unique opportunities to discover their vocation, calling, passions, and purpose as they prepare to reach their highest potential. The College offers more than 70 undergraduate and three graduate programs allowing students to explore diverse interests and create their own academic pathway. Additional information is available at catawba.edu.
