Development
December 11, 2024
University of Portland is proud to announce a $20 million dollar gift—one of the largest single gifts in school history—from a multi-generational family whose ties to the University span more than 65 years.
The historic gift will support the University’s priorities of enhancing student access, supporting academic excellence, and strengthening student formation.
The donor family chose to remain anonymous in order to “keep the focus on the important work happening at the University and the countless students who will be impacted.”
The donors—who count 12 UP alumni in their extended family—offered the following reflection on their commitment: “Our family’s bond with the University of Portland runs deep. We are strong believers in the mission and life-changing impact UP has on its students as they discover their true potential and carry their knowledge and values into the world to make a difference. With our gift, we aim to make the UP experience sustainable and accessible to even more students, because the world needs more Pilots to lead, serve, and inspire.”
Expressing gratitude to the donor family, University President Robert D. Kelly, Ph.D., praised “this extraordinary investment in the University” as “an expression of confidence in our vision, our mission, our momentum, and our Catholic, Holy Cross identity.”
“It is also an expression of confidence in you, the members of our University of Portland community,” Dr. Kelly wrote in an email to the campus community. “These generous donors recognize your brilliance, dedication, and commitment to serving the needs of the world and its human family. They recognize the indescribable magic of our holy Bluff.”
“This Pilot family seeks meaningful change in the world. We are inspired and humbled that they see us as a steward of this shared vision,” said Greg Naleski, Vice President for University Relations. “The University is at a pivotal moment, ready to amplify our impact on the lives of students and every community they touch. The momentum on The Bluff is undeniable, and we are grateful to have this family as part of our journey."
“Today, let us celebrate, let us give thanks, and let us be inspired,” Dr. Kelly told the UP community. “Today is an especially great day to be a Portland Pilot.”
University of Portland
5000 N. Willamette Blvd.,
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503.943.8000
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