Spelman College announced on Wednesday that they are receiving a historic $100 million donation – the largest single donation ever to an HBCU.

The donors include both philanthropist and businesswoman Rhonda Stryker alongside her husband and Chairman of Greenleaf Trust, William Johnston. The $100 million contribution is in celebration of 100 years since Spelman College officially changed its name from Spelman Baptist Seminary in 1924. It also helps eliminate possible barriers that can prevent students from attending the prestigious institution.

Out of the $100 million donated, Spelman announced that $75 Million is going towards the endowed scholarships of future students to further remove financial barriers and to help encourage only the brightest and best students to enroll at the Atlanta college.  The remaining $25 million is going towards the development of public policy and democracy, providing flexible funding to meet needs and to assist with the improvement of student housing on campus.

The significance is huge for Stryker as she has been a Spelman College Trustee since 1997, marking this as her 27th year as a part of the Trustees.  Throughout the years, Stryker has worked to empower women in higher education as well as to provide opportunities and advance opportunities for marginalized groups.

Dr. Helene Gayle, president of Spelman College, gave her thoughts on the donation and expressed her appreciation.

“We are invigorated and inspired by this incredible act of generosity,” said Gayle. “This gift is a critical step in our school’s mission to eliminate financial barriers to starting and finishing a Spelman education. We can’t thank Ronda Stryker enough for her selflessness and support as both a trustee and friend. There’s no doubt that Spelman College is better because of her.”

A special ceremony will take place today on campus, bringing together students and faculty to honor and celebrate the generous contribution from Stryker and Johnston.