Wake Forest University School of Divinity receives largest gift in school history 

Wake Forest University School of Divinity has received a $6.6 million gift from the Griffin Family Trust, the largest individual donation in the school’s history. The historic gift marks the second major contribution from the Griffin family, bringing their total support to the school to approximately $10 million. The two major donations come during the School’s celebration of its 25th anniversary. The Griffin gifts will shape the future of graduate theological education at Wake Forest University.

“This remarkable gift is a testament to the significance and impact of the School of Divinity on individuals and communities across North Carolina and the nation,” said Susan R. Wente, President of Wake Forest University. “As a university deeply committed to Pro Humanitate, this gift helps to ensure that the School of Divinity will continue to advance innovative,  interdisciplinary graduate theological education that will enable faith leaders and professionals to make significant contributions to society.”

The support from the Griffin estate will further advance the School of Divinity’s mission to cultivate faith leaders dedicated to justice, reconciliation, and compassion. A significant portion of the funds will support The Wake Div Promise, a bold initiative that provides full-tuition scholarships to all graduate students enrolled in the Master of Divinity program.

“In today’s complex and challenging world, the need for theologically trained leaders who can offer wisdom, compassion, and courage has never been more urgent,” said Corey D. B. Walker, Dean and Wake Forest Professor of the Humanities. “The Griffin estate’s extraordinary gift allows us to recruit, equip, and empower a diverse community of students who will engage meaningfully with the ethical, social, and spiritual challenges that our society faces today. Their leadership will undoubtedly shape the future of faith communities and the world.”

The Wake Div Promise is part of the School of Divinity’s Wake Div Experience, a holistic approach to student support and development that integrates academic, spiritual, and vocational formation. By offering full-tuition scholarships, the program enables students to fully dedicate themselves to their theological education, ensuring they graduate with fewer financial burdens. This freedom allows them to pursue leadership roles in Christian churches, community organizations, and a multitude of professions that benefit from a faith-informed perspective.

“Our hearts are full of gratitude for this historic gift. The courageous generosity of the Griffin family helps ensure Wake Divinity remains a place of opportunity for all who are called to serve” said Mark Holt, Chair of the School of Divinity’s Board of Visitors. “We who love Wake Forest are called to join this family in faithful support of Wake Divinity and its mission to prepare students for the virtuous work of justice, reconciliation, and compassion.” 

As Wake Divinity prepares to embark on its next quarter century, the $10 million collective gift from the Griffins will have a lasting impact, positioning the School to advance graduate theological education and to serve a vibrant and diverse learning community.

“From our founding 25 years ago, we’ve sought to be a place where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their background or financial situation,” said Walker. “We know that for many, the financial burden of higher education can hinder their ability to fully respond to their call to a life of faithful service and leadership. This incredible gift from the Griffins will allow us to continue providing life-changing learning opportunities for our students and prepare the next generation of faith leaders who assume leadership roles in congregations and communities across the nation.”

Wake Forest University School of Divinity is a graduate, professional school that is Christian by tradition, Baptist in heritage, and ecumenical in outlook. Consistent with Wake Forest’s commitment to academic excellence and in the spirit of the University motto, Pro Humanitate, the School of Divinity prepares leaders informed by a theological understanding of vocation. Through imaginative courses and diverse programs of community engagement, students are equipped to be agents of justice, reconciliation, and compassion in Christian churches and other ministries.