UAA is mystery donor's latest recipient
ANCHORAGE - The mystery donor has struck again, this time giving $7 million to the University of Alaska Anchorage.
The university joins at least 14 other colleges around the nation to receive generous donations from an anonymous donor over the past two months. The gifts have been for amounts up to $10 million, totaling at least $81.5 million.
The colleges are linked by one fact: all are run by women.
Fran Ulmer, chancellor of Alaska Anchorage, says her first reaction upon hearing of the donation was, "Is this for real?" As with other recipients, Ulmer had to promise in writing not to try to find out the donor's identity.
"These are truly anonymous gifts," she said.
Under the terms of the donation announced Friday, $6 million will be used for scholarships, targeting women and minorities whenever possible. About 20,000 students are enrolled at the school.
Of the scholarship portion, $5 million will be endowed to keep the program in perpetuity.
"I'm thrilled because it will be allow us to have many more degree-seeking undergraduates who otherwise might not be able to afford coming here," said Ulmer, a former lieutenant governor and state legislator.
The remaining money will go toward a new science learning center opening next fall.
School officials say the gift is one of the largest donations ever made to the university.
About 50 students a year will benefit from the new "Seawolf Opportunity Scholarship" program, beginning in the fall semester, said Ted Malone, director of student financial aid.
Unlike many other scholarship programs at the university and elsewhere, recipients will not need to apply again in subsequent years. The scholarships will be automatically renewed for recipients who keep their grades up throughout their university career.
Beside tuition, students also will receive financial help for housing or child care. Starting in their second year at the school, recipients will receive an additional $1,000 in "Wolfbucks" for buying books or meals on campus.
"Our students are continually facing issues, where they're having to borrow more," Malone said. "This helps keep doors open for the needy students."
Gifts from the anonymous donor also were announced most recently by New York's Hunter College, Michigan State University and Michigan's Kalamazoo College.