The University of Northwood has announced a landmark $250 million donation from the Evergreen Foundation to establish a new School of Public Health. This significant gift aims to create a leading institution dedicated to addressing global health challenges, training future healthcare leaders, and expanding research in critical areas such as epidemiology and community health.
The new facility, to be named the Evergreen School of Public Health, will focus on interdisciplinary research and practical training. University officials confirmed that the donation is the largest single gift in the institution's 150-year history and will fund the construction of a state-of-the-art building, endowed professorships, and student scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- The University of Northwood received a $250 million donation from the Evergreen Foundation.
- The funds will be used to establish the new Evergreen School of Public Health.
- This gift represents the largest single donation in the university's history.
- The school will focus on global health challenges, research, and training a new generation of public health professionals.
A Transformative Investment in Public Health Education
The University of Northwood's leadership described the donation as a pivotal moment for the institution. The establishment of the Evergreen School of Public Health is expected to significantly enhance the university's research capabilities and its impact on community wellness both locally and globally. The curriculum will be designed to address modern health crises, from infectious diseases to health disparities in underserved populations.
According to a statement from University President Dr. Alistair Finch, the new school will fill a critical gap in the region's educational landscape. "This is more than a donation; it is an investment in the future of public health," Dr. Finch stated. "The Evergreen Foundation's generosity will empower us to build a world-class program that attracts top faculty and students dedicated to solving the most pressing health issues of our time."
Background on the Evergreen Foundation
The Evergreen Foundation is a private philanthropic organization established in 1998 by tech entrepreneur and philanthropist Eleanor Vance. The foundation has a long history of supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and environmental conservation, with a total endowment exceeding $5 billion. Its primary mission is to fund projects that offer sustainable, long-term solutions to systemic problems.
Details of the New Public Health School
Construction on the new facility is slated to begin in the spring of 2025, with an expected completion date in the fall of 2027. The building will be a 150,000-square-foot complex featuring advanced research laboratories, data science centers, collaborative learning spaces, and a community health clinic.
"Our vision is for a school that breaks down the traditional silos between academic disciplines. Public health is connected to everything—economics, policy, environment, and social justice. Our facility and curriculum will reflect that interconnected reality," said Dr. Finch during the announcement ceremony.
The university plans to launch a national search for the school's inaugural dean immediately. The first cohort of students is expected to be admitted for the Fall 2028 semester. The school will offer several degree programs, including:
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Ph.D. in Epidemiology
- Ph.D. in Health Policy and Management
- Master of Science in Biostatistics
Impact on Students and Faculty
A significant portion of the $250 million gift is designated for financial support. Approximately $75 million will be allocated to an endowment for student scholarships, with a focus on supporting individuals from underrepresented backgrounds who wish to pursue careers in public health. Another $50 million will establish endowed professorships to recruit and retain leading researchers and educators in the field.
This financial structure is designed to make the program accessible and attract top-tier talent. The university anticipates that the school will create over 50 new faculty positions and support a student body of approximately 400 graduate students within its first five years of operation.
By the Numbers: The Evergreen School of Public Health
- Total Donation: $250 million
- Facility Size: 150,000 square feet
- Scholarship Endowment: $75 million
- Endowed Professorships: $50 million
- Projected New Faculty Positions: 50+
- Expected Opening: Fall 2027
Addressing Regional and Global Health Needs
The new school's mission will have both a local and global focus. University officials highlighted plans to partner with local health departments and non-profit organizations to address specific health challenges within the state, such as opioid addiction, access to rural healthcare, and chronic disease prevention.
At the same time, the school will establish international research partnerships to tackle global health issues. Key areas of focus will include pandemic preparedness, climate change's impact on health, and improving health systems in developing nations. The goal is to produce graduates who are equipped to work in a variety of settings, from local community clinics to international organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO).
A spokesperson for the Evergreen Foundation, speaking on behalf of Eleanor Vance, emphasized this dual mission. "We believe that solutions to global health problems often begin with strong community-level action," the statement read. "The University of Northwood is perfectly positioned to bridge that gap, training leaders who can think globally and act locally. We are proud to support this vital initiative."
Future Outlook and Economic Impact
The establishment of the Evergreen School of Public Health is also projected to have a substantial economic impact on the region. The construction project alone is expected to create hundreds of jobs. Once operational, the school will become a major employer and a hub for innovation, potentially attracting biotech firms and health-focused startups to the area.
The university will now enter a detailed planning and architectural design phase. Further announcements regarding the curriculum, faculty appointments, and community partnerships are expected over the next 12 to 18 months. The university has launched a dedicated website to provide updates on the project's progress.
This historic donation places the University of Northwood at the forefront of public health education and research, promising a new era of innovation and community impact that will be felt for generations to come.