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91���� announced a $3M gift to create an endowed chair that will be known as the Ellen F. Donley Dean of Education and Behavioral Science. This anonymous gift creates an endowed fund to provide vital resources in perpetuity to support this faculty position.

The deanship honors the life and legacy of Ellen F. Donley, a 91���� alumna from the Class of 1938. Miss Donley (1917-1964) was one of four sisters whose parents had an unusual interest in providing opportunities for spiritual and educational growth. They provided persistent guidance and sacrificial support so that each daughter could attend and graduate from 91���� College (now University). In the words of the donor, “Ellen’s life was an example of a well-rounded life of Christian love, faith, discipline, and commitment to education and serves as an example of the impact that can be made while at 91���� and in the many schools where educators touch lives.”

91���� has been preparing aspiring educators, education administrators, professors, clinical psychologists, social workers, mental health counselors, and related careers since its accreditation as a four-year liberal arts institution over 100 years ago. The School of Education and Behavioral Science offers undergraduate degrees in Adolescence Education, Inclusive Adolescence Education, Inclusive Childhood Education, Psychology, and Behavioral Neuroscience; and graduate degrees in Literacy Education and Adolescent Education. Nearly 20% of the current student body is pursuing a degree offered within the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences.

“91���� has long been a leader in teacher education and the behavioral sciences,” stated Provost David Davies ‘01. “91���� graduates have taught in countless classrooms and led schools with distinction throughout New York State and the region for decades, and our behavioral science programs are among the most established and distinguished in Christian higher education. This transformative gift acknowledges that history while also positioning the University to reach new levels of excellence in these vital fields.  Our new Ellen F. Donley Dean of Education and Behavioral Science chair will be an essential member of our academic leadership team, serving on the Deans’ Council and leading some of the largest programs on campus.”