The fiscal 2015 Wilson Fund goal is $1 million. To date, $449,909 has been raised, according to the Office of Institutional Advancement. Thanks to the Lenfest challenge, 49 donors have contributed nearly $29,530 in the first two weeks of the challenge – resulting in nearly $60,000 for the Wilson Fund.

Gifts to the Wilson Fund are unrestricted and go directly to the current operating budget to defray costs where the need is greatest. The fund is used in a variety of ways, including upgrading and equipping classrooms and laboratories; bringing scholars, poets and musicians to campus to enhance student cultural experiences; compensating faculty; and maintaining Wilson’s beautiful, historic campus. In addition, the Wilson Fund helps deserving students stay in school or reduce their debt by providing scholarships.

Marguerite Lenfest and her husband, Gerry, are longtime supporters of Wilson College. During Wilson’s “Leading with Confidence” capital campaign, they pledged a total of $20 million toward the College’s endowment. Over the years, the Lenfests have supported Wilson’s annual fund and generously contributed to the unrestricted endowment, student scholarships, faculty development, the Women with Children program and facilities renovations. Through their generosity, Lenfest Commons was created as a student gathering and study space at the center of campus.