WILLIAMSBURG — William & Mary announced the largest scholarship gift in the university’s history Thursday to provide full tuition support for students pursuing the new bachelor’s degree in coastal & marine sciences at W&M’s Batten School.
The $50 million gift from Dr. R. Todd Stravitz ’82 and the Brunckhorst Foundation comes ahead of the kickoff of “The Year of the Environment” during this weekend’s Charter Day celebrations.
“Generations of students will benefit from this tremendous gift,” William & Mary Provost Peggy Agouris said. “It paves the way for emerging scholars to deepen their expertise in these critical research areas and become part of the vibrant academic community at W&M’s Batten School & VIMS. Thanks to the generosity of Dr. Stravitz and the Brunckhorst Foundations, there are incredible opportunities ahead.”
The university noted the gift is the largest ever for a school of coastal and marine sciences and the first of its kind nationally. The first scholarship is to be awarded for fall 2025, and the total number of scholarships will increase annually. The university adds the announcement builds on the momentum of a $100 million gift from Jane Batten in July to establish the Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences.
W&M and the Batten School’s launch of Virginia’s first public undergraduate degree in coastal & marine sciences was recently approved by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. According to the university, the first cohort of selected students will begin studies this fall, kicking off with a “soft launch” of the major’s immersion semester in which students will take classes on the Batten School & VIMS campus.
“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Stravitz and the Brunckhorst Foundations,” said President Katherine A. Rowe. “This gift removes financial barriers, allowing the brightest minds to access the learning and tools needed to address our planet’s urgent problems. These future trailblazers will craft solutions that safeguard ecosystems, economies, and the communities that depend on them around the globe.”
“This gift is about funding tomorrow’s problem-solvers,” added Derek Aday, dean of the Batten School and director of VIMS. “At William & Mary, we equip students with the skills to craft applied solutions to some of the biggest challenges of our time. This investment ensures our students can lead where the world needs them most.”
The Brunckhorst Foundation is dedicated to advancing important global causes, including medical research and environmental sustainability. With a focus on innovative solutions and initiatives, the foundations have been an important partner in supporting the Batten School & VIMS’ efforts to promote resilience, conservation and education for the last several years.
“When I was a student, a degree like this didn’t exist, and I want to create the pathway for today’s students to experience the best of William & Mary so they are prepared for the greatest challenges of their generation,” said Stravitz. “Our best hope for solving the environmental crises we face is educating young people to care for and improve our planet. Programs like this are critical to our future, and I’m honored to support this vital mission.”
This gift coincides with the start of William & Mary’s Year of the Environment, which brings the entire community together to deepen W&M’s shared commitment to safeguarding the environment and the communities that depend on its health. The yearlong observance will focus on advancing sustainability and conservation efforts on campus and furthering the university’s impact around the world.
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