News Summary
The University of North Carolina Asheville has kicked off its Centennial Campaign with a groundbreaking $5 million donation from a local family. This ambitious campaign aims to raise $100 million for the university’s 100th anniversary in 2027, significantly boosting support for athletics. Highlighted by a substantial $1.8 million commitment to athletics, the campaign seeks to promote academic success among student-athletes through scholarships and enhanced resources. As the university approaches its centennial, this campaign promises lasting impacts on the UNC Asheville community and encourages further support from alumni and philanthropists.
UNC Asheville Launches Centennial Campaign with Historic $5 Million Donation
Asheville, NC – The University of North Carolina Asheville (UNC Asheville) officially launched the public phase of its Centennial Campaign on April 24, 2025, with the announcement of a historic $5 million donation from a local family. This campaign aims to raise $100 million by the university’s 100th anniversary in 2027, with a significant portion allocated to support athletics.
The recent gift marks the largest contribution in UNC Asheville’s history and includes a committed $1.8 million to be used specifically for athletics, the most substantial athletic donation in the program’s history. Of this amount, $1 million is designated for the Janet R. Cone Athletics Endowment, while $800,000 will establish two endowed “Janet R. Cone Gateway Scholarships” aimed at assisting first-generation student-athletes.
Campaign Goals and Strategic Focus
The Centennial Campaign focuses on four strategic pillars, with athletics being a vital area of focus. The support provided through this campaign will directly enhance the university’s commitment to developing scholar-athletes who excel both academically and athletically. Following a trend observed in the recent achievements of UNC Asheville’s scholar-athletes, who graduate at higher rates and maintain higher GPAs compared to the general student population, this initiative aims to further promote academic success within the athletics program.
The scholarship program aims to remove financial barriers for high-potential, financially challenged students, ensuring their graduation rates align with those of their peers. Comprehensively, the Gateway Scholars Program will also offer tuition coverage, housing, meals, and access to academic support services and health insurance, thereby enhancing student achievement and persistence. Matching funds have been promised by the anonymous donors for new endowed Gateway Scholarship funds, promoting further philanthropy within the community.
The Impact of the Donation
Kirk Swenson, vice chancellor for university advancement, articulated that this $5 million gift reflects a transformational opportunity for UNC Asheville, aiming to empower students in navigating unanticipated challenges in their academic endeavors. In recognition of her long service to the athletics program, this gift is intended to honor Janet Cone’s contributions, further establishing her legacy within the university.
The importance of athletics to the university is reflected in its membership in the NCAA Division I Big South Conference, highlighting high ideals for scholar-athletes. The university takes pride in the notable academic accomplishments of its athletes, with three of the last five valedictorians being scholar-athletes. This aligns with the dedication to combining academic success with athletic achievement, appealing to philanthropists who share this commitment.
Conclusion and Future Aspirations
Chancellor Kimberly van Noort emphasized the critical nature of this gift in shaping the future of UNC Asheville and its student body. As the university moves toward its centennial celebration, the Centennial Campaign not only aims to elevate UNC Asheville’s stature as an educational institution but also to foster a supportive environment for all its students, particularly those involved in athletics. The campaign is expected to create lasting impacts on the university community and encourage further investments from supporters and alumni.
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HERE Resources
UNC Asheville Receives Historic $5 Million Donation
Additional Resources
- UNC Asheville Athletics Receives Largest Gift in Bulldog Athletics History
- WLOS: UNC Asheville Receives Historic $5 Million Gift
- Cardinal Alpine: UNC Asheville Receives $5 Million Gift
- Google Search: UNC Asheville
- Wikipedia: University of North Carolina at Asheville
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
