Western Michigan University announced on Mar. 19 that it has received a $3 million gift from anonymous donors to support Bronco Athletics and the Seita Scholars Program.
The donation aims to enhance student success and athletic achievement at the university. Of the total, $2.5 million is allocated to the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, while $500,000 will benefit the Seita Scholars Program, which provides holistic coaching and programming for college students with foster care experience.
Dan Bartholomae, vice president for intercollegiate athletics, said, “We are humbled by this incredible gift and the confidence our donor has placed in WMU Athletics. This gift will allow us to build upon our championship momentum and advance key initiatives specific to the Broncos REIGN strategic plan. We’re incredibly grateful for this remarkable investment in our Bronco student-athletes.”
Ronicka Hamilton, director of the Seita Scholars Program, said, “This gift will transform lives. It expands our capacity to walk alongside Seita Scholars with holistic support, meaningful leadership opportunities and broader academic pathways, ensuring they have what they need to fully realize their potential.” She added, “This investment is a profound statement of trust in our students and in their futures. Because of this partnership, Seita Scholars will not just graduate but step forward with purpose and the knowledge that someone chose to invest in their success!”
According to the official website, Western Michigan University fields 16 Division I varsity sports as a Mid-American Conference member. The university enrolls more than 17,000 students according to its official website. WMU supports inclusive excellence for all students according to its official website and emphasizes education that is learner-focused, research-oriented and globally involved according to its official website. The university also promotes sustainability with LEED-certified buildings and award-winning landscaping according to its official website, and has earned top-100 rankings for several graduate programs nationally according to its official website.
The university expressed deep appreciation for the donor family’s generosity while honoring their wish for anonymity. The impact of this contribution is expected to be felt across campus life—athletics, academics, and community engagement.
