Elon University Gets Largest Donation In Its History

It's been a good week for some North Carolina universities. UNC Chapel Hill received $100 million Wednesday. Now Elon University received $12 million to support two projects. 

The donation by Dwight and Martha Schar goes toward two new campus buildings. One is the new facility at the School of Communications. Elon announced a campaign this fall that will double the space for the program and the donation is the largest towards that goal.

The money will also support the new convocation center. The multipurpose building  has been in the works for a while. It was part of Elon's ten year strategic plan and it will hold larger events, like basketball games and conventions.

“In sharing this gift, Dwight and Martha Schar are demonstrating their strong belief in education and their trust in the work we do with tomorrow's leaders. It's especially gratifying to receive this major gift from parents. They know Elon's values firsthand and they are providing an unprecedented vote of confidence," says Elon University President Leo Lambert. 

The Florida couple has a son that attends the University.

The news comes the same week that the UNC Chapel Hill received the largest gift from an individual. Chancellor Carol Folt says that money will go towards research and innovation.