WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — Philanthropist Jane Batten has donated $100 million to William & Mary, establishing the Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences. This unprecedented gift, the largest in the university’s 331-year history, aims to position William & Mary and its Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) as global leaders in addressing ecological, economic, and social challenges in coastal and marine systems.
“This gift propels us forward toward great promise and progress,” Batten said. “I am confident that it will spark significant change, building resilience in coastal communities in the Commonwealth and across the globe for generations to come.”
The Batten School, located on the York River in Gloucester Point, Va., will focus on attracting top talent in coastal and marine sciences, fostering innovative partnerships, and expanding educational programs. Specific initiatives include launching a new bachelor’s degree in marine science, expanding graduate opportunities, and recruiting interdisciplinary scientists to tackle urgent challenges.
“William & Mary has long been at the vanguard of research tackling urgent local, national and international challenges,” said President Katherine Rowe. “By investing in bold ideas and new partnerships, the Batten School will power ‘science for solutions’ for Virginia and the world.”
Dean of the Batten School and Director of VIMS Derek Aday highlighted the significance of the gift in advancing critical research and policy, as well as training future leaders. “With this unprecedented gift, we will not only advance critical research and inform policy but also train the next generation of scientists, thought leaders and engaged citizens, preparing them to navigate the complexities of global change in this century.”
The Batten School aims to raise an additional $100 million from state, federal, and private sources to fully realize its vision. The school will continue to build on VIMS’ nearly century-long legacy of coastal and marine research and education. Established in 1940 and integrated with William & Mary in 1979, VIMS is a global leader in these fields.
Jane Batten and her late husband Frank Batten have been long-time supporters of William & Mary, contributing to various initiatives including the Batten Foundation Scholarship Endowment and the Frank Batten Sr. MBA Investment Fund Endowment. Their latest gift underscores their commitment to environmental conservation, education, and research.
“This gift is evidence of shared trust and mutual belief that together, along with our philanthropic partners, we can make a big difference in some of the most important systems on the planet,” Aday added.
Faculty, staff, and students at William & Mary and VIMS are poised to broaden research efforts, educate the public, and provide scientific guidance for decision-making. “Our work has positioned us as a global scientific leader, a respected educational partner and a trusted advisor on coastal and marine issues,” Aday said. “We are optimistic about our next chapter and hopeful that together, with partners across the globe, we can implement real change for the betterment of humanity.”
It is a disgrace to see the accommodations provided in Wachapreague for W&M and VIMS compared to The USCG that they would call if they were in trouble.