Capital University Announces Largest Bequest in its History

Capital University announced today it has received the largest bequest in the institution’s 182-year history.

Honoring the wishes of the donors, who wish to remain anonymous, the exact amount of the gift will not be made public, but its value exceeds $4 million. The gift will come from the donors’ estate and will be used to benefit Capital and its students.

“This is an extraordinary gift in the life of the University, and we accept it with joy and gratitude,” President Denvy A. Bowman said. “It is a powerful testament to Capital’s impact on people’s lives that our alumni and friends embrace our mission of transforming lives through higher education — helping to carry it out by giving back to the University. This historic investment will have a profound and lasting effect on our students.”

“Our alumni and friends are more engaged than ever. Increased investment — in participation and in giving — demonstrates a growing awareness in the Cap Family that we’re all connected,” Kevin W. Sayers, executive vice president for Planning and Advancement, said. “This amazing act of generosity is an investment in individuals. It will impact lives in ways people can’t even imagine.”

This fiscal year has proven to be successful for Capital fundraising, with more than $7 million in gifts and pledges so far and five more months to go in the counting period. Other major gifts pledged will support the Center for Faith and Learning and Athletics and Recreation. Student and faculty support, research and scholarship remain at the core of Capital’s mission and the foundation of the University’s fundraising priorities.

Located in the Columbus, Ohio, neighborhood of Bexley, Capital University is a private, four-year undergraduate institution and graduate school. Capital prepares students for meaningful lives and purposeful careers through a relevant liberal arts core curriculum and deep professional programs. Influenced by its Lutheran heritage, Capital places great emphasis on the free and open exchange of ideas, seeking out diverse perspectives, active participation in society, leadership and service. With a focus on rigor and experiential learning, the University capitalizes on its size, location, and heritage to develop the whole person, both inside and outside the classroom.  

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