Elmhurst University has announced a significant philanthropic gift that will establish an endowed professorship and a scholarship benefiting the University’s innovative School of Business and its students.

The anonymous donor, a member of the Elmhurst University Board of Trustees, made an estate commitment of more than $1.5 million to establish the professorship, and will fund the $150,000 scholarship with ongoing gifts.

“We are thrilled to recognize this outstanding gift from one of our trustees,” said Elmhurst University President Troy D. VanAken. “This commitment from a leader who cares so deeply about this institution will benefit our students for years to come, both through direct scholarship support and by ensuring the finest educational experience.”

The proceeds will be available for the School of Business to address its greatest needs. “Because the School has many options for growth, I want to give them the flexibility to expand programs and opportunities,” the donor said.

It was the donor’s longtime admiration for Elmhurst University, especially the strength of its mission and impact on students, that led the donor to seek meaningful, lasting ways to support it.

“I think so highly of Elmhurst and its focus on being student centered. Faculty and staff provide students with dedicated guidance and remarkable educational, research and internship opportunities,” the donor said.

“There also is a rich environment of collegiality and support,” the donor said. “Elmhurst wants to create sustainable programs, and works hard to build on its strengths.”

Business has long been one of Elmhurst U.’s most popular areas of study, and includes programs in accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, business intelligence and analytics, logistics and supply chain management, and more. The endowed scholarship will be awarded to undergraduate students in the School of Business.

Endowed professorships help attract and retain exceptional faculty. Once funded, the School of Business professorship would be awarded to a faculty member to support their scholarly activities.

“We are deeply grateful for this extraordinary gift,” said Siaw-Peng Wan, co-dean of the School of Business. “By investing in both student scholarships and an endowed professorship, this generosity will expand opportunity, strengthen academic excellence and leave a lasting legacy.”

“Endowed gifts are among the most meaningful investments donors can make in the future of Elmhurst University,” said Lia Kampman, vice president for institutional advancement.

“This significant commitment will benefit our students, faculty and academic mission for generations to come.”

To learn more about supporting Elmhurst University, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at (630) 617-3600 or [email protected].