$20 million gift fuels University’s transformation plan for a strong future

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students,

I am delighted to announce a $20 million gift to Clark from alumnus and University Trustee Ron Shaich ’76 to support implementation of the transformational strategic plan introduced last spring. This is the largest single gift in the University’s history. With this gift, Mr. Shaich is supporting what he recognizes to be difficult yet absolutely necessary changes to propel Clark into a new chapter of sustained vibrancy and excellence. So fully does he believe in the recent success and potential of this transformation for Clark that he is making this gift as a challenge to all Clark stakeholders to support the transformation. Mr. Shaich’s total giving to the University is now over $25 million, and he hopes his gift today will inspire other alumni and stakeholders to join him in supporting Clark at this time of consequential change in higher education.

A mix of endowed and expendable funds, Mr. Shaich’s gift will support expanded enrollment and financial aid initiatives;the continued progression of The Clark Experience; activities and efforts to raise awareness and visibility as we launch the School of Climate, Environment, and Society; and other academic and programmatic initiatives called for in our strategic transformation plan, all of which enhances our students’ educational experience and outcomes while also supporting our faculty and programs in key areas of institutional focus. His support for Clark will allow us to make key investments even as we continue the hard but necessary work of reducing expenses and rightsizing the institution. His gift does not replace the need for financial discipline — it enhances our ability to align that discipline with bold action.

As a former chair of the Board and current trustee, Mr. Shaich knows very well what the challenges and opportunities are for Clark. The leading role he is taking to support us philanthropically is a testament to his belief in the power and promise of our great institution. As an alum, he knows firsthand the power of a Clark education and is eager to empower today’s students, faculty, and staff. As many of you know, his own Clark education — and his experience founding and running the General Store at Clark during his time as a student — led him to go on to become among the most successful entrepreneurs and most influential food service leaders of his generation. Mr. Shaich is credited with defining the “fast casual” restaurant category and has been the founder, lead investor, chair, and/or CEO of multiple successful enterprises including Au Bon Pain, Panera Bread, Cava, Tatte Bakery and Cafe, Life Alive, Honest Greens Barcelona, and Level 99.

Put simply, I couldn’t be more inspired or grateful for this singular act of support for the institution we all care so deeply about, and I hope you feel the same.

David Fithian ’87
President