The University of St. Thomas in Minnesota has received a transformative \$25.5 million donation aimed at enhancing both its academic and athletic programs. The anonymous gift was announced on May 14 during a campuswide celebration.
More than half of the donation, totaling \$15.3 million, will go towards establishing a center within the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) to support interdisciplinary and intercultural education. This initiative aims to foster student understanding across different academic fields and cultural perspectives. The remaining \$9 million will help fund the construction of the Lee & Penny Anderson Arena, which will serve as the home for the university’s men’s and women’s hockey and basketball teams. An additional \$1.25 million will be allocated for athletic scholarships.
President Rob Vischer expressed his gratitude, stating that the donor’s support will help further the university’s mission to provide a transformational education that prepares students for leadership in a complex world. “By supporting both the liberal arts and athletics, her gift amplifies our mission to deliver a transformational whole-person education,” Vischer said.
This significant contribution follows a recent \$20 million donation from John Monahan ’73 to expand arts programming at the university. Inspired by Monahan’s generosity, the anonymous donor expressed a desire to contribute in a similar way, believing that education, faith, and community were integral to her own St. Thomas experience. “Generosity is an act of faith and love,” she shared, emphasizing her wish to support the university’s long-term mission.
The donation also contributes to the success of the Lee & Penny Anderson Arena’s fundraising campaign. In recognition of this, the women’s and men’s basketball practice courts will be named the McCarthy Practice Facility, honoring the legacy of Monsignor Louis J. McCarthy, a key figure in the university’s history.
Athletic Director Phil Esten highlighted the impact of the gift, noting that it not only strengthens the university’s athletic program but also supports its broader institutional goals. “This gift provides vital momentum as we continue our upward trajectory,” he said.
The university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary education is further showcased by facilities like the Schoenecker Center, which brings together various disciplines to prepare students for success beyond graduation. Bill Tolman, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, praised the donor’s contribution, emphasizing the importance of teaching students to tackle global challenges through a multifaceted approach.
This generous gift represents a significant step forward for the university, supporting both its academic mission and its aspirations to become a competitive force in collegiate athletics.
