Taylor University Receives $20 Million Gift – Largest in 177-Year History

Taylor University has announced a landmark $20 million gift that will serve as the catalyst for a scholarship challenge match. “This is truly a hinge moment in the life of Taylor University,” said President D. Michael Lindsay.  “At a time when we’re preparing to welcome the largest incoming class in our 177-year history, this gift will allow us to extend our reach to even more students and families who want to attend Taylor.”

According to the Million Dollar List compiled by the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy (known for chronicling the nation’s most complete data on philanthropic, million-dollar gifts), the anonymous $20 million gift is not only the largest in Taylor’s history, but it is also the largest ever received by a Christian college or university in the state of Indiana. In addition, the gift will be the second largest among all Indiana private educational institutions with a scholarship designation.

Dr. Michael Falder, Vice President for University Advancement, said the gift will be used to launch the most aggressive scholarship challenge match the institution has ever pursued. “We are incredibly grateful for the alumni and friends whose giving makes it possible for us to enhance brick-and-mortar projects on our campus,” said Falder. “But what makes this gift truly special is that it’s a transformational investment that makes Taylor more accessible – turning $20 million into $40 million for student scholarships. Every gift from $10 to $10 million will be matched dollar-for-dollar.” Because of this, the endeavor is named the 10:10 Scholarship Challenge, which also alludes to Jesus’ words in John 10:10 that He came to give “life to the full.” The University recently adopted this particular verse as inspiration for their new brand rollout, and it can be seen on billboards across the region.

Though Taylor’s fiscal year does not end until May 31, the University had already broken all historical fundraising records prior to receiving this gift. Chris Goeglein, Chair of Taylor’s Board of Trustees, commented, “This has been an unprecedented year of financial support from our alumni and friends and this $20 million gift propels Taylor’s five-year strategic plan even further. We are so grateful for the extraordinary generosity of our donors. We believe deeply in the transformational difference a Taylor education makes; this gift brings that education within reach for many more deserving students and represents the largest investment in student scholarships in Taylor’s history.”

Taylor University officially launched the 10:10 Scholarship Challenge at the annual President’s Dinner Friday night, April 28. 

About Taylor University  

For 177 years, Taylor University has combined rigorous academics with the Christian faith and remains the oldest nondenominational school in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). For nearly three decades, Taylor has been ranked a top Midwest College by U.S. News & World Report. The University’s graduation rate is the fourth highest nationally among peer institutions, and 98 percent of Taylor’s graduates were employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. With a strong legacy of service and global opportunities, Taylor also ranks sixth nationally for study abroad internships and travel opportunities.