A gift of $5 million to the Westchester Community College Foundation, the largest single gift in the history of the college, will establish the Joseph N. Hankin Gateway to the Future Fund. Given by an anonymous donor in recognition of President Hankin’s extraordinary leadership of the college since 1971, the fund will transform the college’s ability to implement visionary new endeavors. As the second president since the college’s founding in 1946, he has guided the college to its current position as one of the most prestigious community colleges in the nation.

             The $5 million dollar gift will be made over the next four years, with $2.5 million paid in 2009 and the second $2.5 million paid by installments as a 3:1 challenge match is met, bringing the gift’s total value to $12.5 million. This gift and the matching funds will allow the college to respond quickly and effectively to strategic priorities and key initiatives identified by Westchester Community College’s strategic planning process. 

The first half of the gift will complete the $14.5 million capital campaign for The Gateway Center, and provide for leadership of Gateway programs. In a 70,000 square foot building that will open in 2010, The Gateway Center will provide the essential new classrooms and academic resources with cutting-edge technology, innovative programs, and opportunity for students from all backgrounds to gain skills for success.  

“We are honored and delighted by this gift, which affirms Westchester Community College’s position as a leader in providing excellence in education to meet the needs of our diverse community,” says Hankin. “I can think of no better recognition than a fund to ensure our programs grow in innovation and quality. Gifts of this magnitude offer the opportunity to meet emerging challenges and create a legacy for the future.”  

Westchester Community College Foundation annually ranks among the top ten community colleges in the nation for its fundraising success and this $5 million gift is among the largest gifts ever received by a community college. The Foundation is responsible for raising all private, corporate and foundation gifts on behalf of Westchester Community College, providing student scholarships, program development, faculty opportunities, as well as facility and technology enhancement. Individuals who are interested in participating in the challenge match for the $5 million gift should contact Shirley Phillips, Vice President of External Affairs, at 914-606-6670.