College receives largest donation in its history

SARASOTA — Ringling College of Art and Design announced it received a $15 million donation — the college's largest single donation and its first eight-figure gift since the college's founding in 1931.

Board member Dr. Joel Morganroth and his wife, Dr. Gail Morganroth, gave the donation.

According to a press release, the donation will be used to support initiatives across the institution including funding for endowment, capital, scholarships, current and future programming, the Sarasota Museum of Art, and the creation of the first endowed department head at Ringling College in its newest major, virtual reality development.

“We are so proud to be part of and look forward to supporting an organization on such a fast rise,” says Dr. Joel Morganroth in a statement. “We hope our gift will inspire others to join us in investing in the future of art and design, technology, education and the Sarasota region.”

Ringling College has 1,460 students. The nonprofit, accredited college offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 11 disciplines and a Bachelor of Arts degree in two disciplines.