Loras College receives $2 million gift for scholarships

Loras College, a private Catholic university based in Dubuque, Iowa, has received an anonymous donation of $2 million to go toward scholarship programs.

College President Jim Collins said the estate gift is intended to help talented students in need of financial assistance attend the college. The $2 million commitment will be put toward the university’s Inspiring Lives & Leadership program that has sought to grant scholarships based on economic need since 2013.

The anonymous donation was made by a couple who said they hope others who have benefited from education at Loras College will also consider donating to the Inspiring Lives & Leadership fund.

“We believe Loras College provides an excellent opportunity for us to share our generosity and are confident it will continue to develop strong leaders,” the donors said. “We hope all associated with Loras will join us in the circle of giving.”

The program has thus far raised more than $81 million through more than 19,000 donors. Collins said that kind of generosity is key to providing good higher education to students who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford it.

“Such generous and selfless individuals help ensure that we continue educating the promising students of today and tomorrow,” Collins said. “This couple’s commitment and generosity to Loras will impact countless students. We are so grateful to our donors for their amazing support.”

Thus far, the money raised by the Inspiring Lives & Leadership fund drive has established more than 90 new scholarship funds, improved facilities, and built up new academic and arts programs.