Anonymous Donor Gives $100 Million to University of Chicago

An anonymous donor has gifted the University of Chicago $100 million to support its efforts to free expression.

The funding will support the institution’s leadership on principles and practice of free expression, as well as further initiatives of the University of Chicago Forum for Free Inquiry and Expression, Erudera.com reports.

“This remarkable gift will underpin an enduring Chicago Forum for Free Inquiry and Expression and will allow us to significantly deepen the understanding and practices here at the University of Chicago. Equally important, it will enable us to expand this important work on a much larger scale,” the President of the University of Chicago said in an official statement.

Chair of the University of Chicago Board of Trustees David Rubenstein recalled the university’s commitment to free expression since the institution's establishment 130 years ago.

“Since its founding, the University of Chicago has had an unwavering commitment to free expression, standing out as a beacon among other great universities. This commitment will make it possible for students and scholars as well as leaders in society to experience UChicago’s distinctive approach,” Rubenstein stated.

After October 7, 2023, when the Israel-Gaza war began, pro-Palestinian protests spread at campuses across the US and around the world, pushing universities to revise policies on free speech.

Last month, the American Association of University Professors issued a statement, criticizing harsh restrictions which could affect free expression at universities amid Israel-Gaza war protests on campuses.

“Our colleges and universities should encourage, not suppress, open and vigorous dialogue and debate even on the most deeply held beliefs," the statement said.

It also pointed out that many policies were introduced without consulting with the faculty. Some restrictions include banning student protests after 11 pm, banning encampments and overnight protests, and approving use of banners, signs, and more.

Indiana University introduced a policy that became effective on August 1, 2024, prohibiting student demonstrations after 11 pm. According to the rule, students should priory ask for approval to show banners or signs on campus.

The University of Chicago was founded in 1890 and ranks as one of the top research universities in the world. It has the main campus on Chicago's South Side and seven other international campuses around the world.

Total enrollment at the university stands at 18,523 students. Of these, 7,653 are pursuing undergraduate degrees and 10,870 are graduate students. The university has a community of more than 193,000 alumni worldwide.