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by Adjoa Aikins
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FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — Fresno Pacific University is receiving a historic gift that is expected to transform the lives of hundreds of students.
King J. Richter, a longtime friend and supporter of the university, has donated $21.9 million to create endowed scholarships, the largest contribution in the university’s history.
The gift is also believed to be the second-largest public charitable donation in Central Valley history, following a $29.4 million gift to Fresno State’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology in 2009.
The donation will fund several scholarship programs, including the Alvina Richter Scholarship Fund in honor of his mother, the Elmer R. Richter, Sr. Scholarship Fund in honor of his father and the King J. Richter Scholarship.
These scholarships are designed to provide financial support to students pursuing higher education at FPU, helping to ensure that talented and dedicated students have access to a Christ-centered academic environment.
Richter’s generosity is not new.
In 1992, he established the King J. Richter Annual Scholarship, aimed at helping high-achieving students access life-changing educational opportunities at Fresno Pacific.
University officials say his latest gift demonstrates a long-standing commitment to supporting students and the broader mission of the university.
“King J. Richter’s generosity reflects a deep and enduring commitment to Fresno Pacific and our mission,” said FPU President André Stephens, Ph.D. “This remarkable gift will open doors for countless students—both now and for generations to come—equipping them to pursue their calling and make a difference in the world. My hope is this gift will also inspire others to give in support of the life-changing, Christ-centered education we provide.”
The Richter family has deep roots in the Central Valley and a long history of entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
King J. Richter’s grandfather, Jacob Richter, founded Richter Bottling Works, later known as Fresno’s Pepsi Cola Bottling Company, in 1895.
Under the leadership of Richter and his brother Bud as CEO, the company dominated the Fresno-Madera County market and consistently outsold competitors by a wide margin.
The company was sold to the Liggett Group in 1975.
After moving to Beverly Hills, King J. Richter continued his commitment to philanthropy, particularly in supporting Christian higher education.
University officials say his gift will not only provide immediate support for current students but also create a lasting legacy that benefits future generations.
FPU encourages others interested in contributing to the university to consider legacy gifts, which can vary in amount but all make a significant impact.
Those interested in including FPU in their estate plans can contact Steven Redekop, director of development and legacy gifts at the FPU Foundation, at 559-453-3451.