W&M receives its largest ever donation towards the Virginia Institute of Marine Science

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (WAVY) – William & Mary (W&M) received their largest ever donation on Wednesday in the hopes of helping coastal communities defend against rising seas, intense storms and changing temperatures.

W&M President Katherine Rowe announced on Wednesday the $100 million donation from Jane Batten, a W&M alumni and notable philanthropist.

“Ms. Battens investment is a clarion call,” Rowe said. “Water and coastal resiliency are crucial to every part of human flourishing, communities, transport and food supply.”

The money will go towards helping the university hire more faculty and to fund research on the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. The money will also help to expand a new major in marine science for undergraduates.

“It’s geographical location in the center of the region at high environmental risk calls for an institution to address these rapid global changes,” Batten said.

The rapid global changes Batten spoke about have the potential to threaten several coastal communities and marine systems, impacting 3.2 billion people world wide and 5 million in the Commonwealth.

“What is the best way to save Tangier Island,” Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine asked. “What is the best way to preserve our military bases from sea level rise? What is the best way to invest money in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area to protect homes and businesses.”

Batten, along with he late husband Frank Batten Sr., have been major supporters of W&M, as well as other Virginia colleges.

“Frank loved the sea,” Batten said. “He loved boats. He was an avid sailor. He would rejoice in this gift, and let’s not forget, his business acumen and his entrepreneurship is what makes this gift possible. Thank you Frank.”

The Batten family has challenged state and federal leaders, as well as the private sector, to match their $100 million donation.

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