$1.5 Million Challenge

An anonymous donor has pledged a $1,500,000 challenge gift to York College, York College President Wayne Baker announced Monday.

"The monies given through this generous challenge will directly support new program initiatives. Donations from new sources will be matched dollar for dollar over a four-year period, resulting in a $3,000,000 impact. The first matching installment will be given in 2007," said Baker.

"Offering competitive degree programs in fields where both shortages and opportunities exist is one of the most powerful ways York College can serve this region," Baker continued. "This $1.5M gift will allow the College to answer these needs by creating and enhancing programs that are relevant to Nebraska's need for educated individuals in key fields."

H. Jarrell Gibbs, chairman of the Board of Trustees for York College said, "I am so pleased and grateful for the opportunities this donation will create for the future of York College."

When asked specifically what programs would benefit from the $3M infusion of capital, Baker stated, "Our Board of Trustees takes very seriously the fiduciary responsibility that accompanies a gift such as this. Careful planning and investigation will precede the decisions we make regarding new program initiatives. We began this process at our board meeting this weekend, and announcements will be forthcoming. Unquestionably, this is an exciting time for York College."