Alverno College received a series of gifts, including a $1.1 million legacy from Gwen and Rudy Godinez, to financially support first-generation students. Grants received include $30,000 from the Johnson Controls Foundation, $20,000 from the ROS Foundation, and $10,000 from the Dr. Scholl Foundation.

Alverno College has long been dedicated to its first-generation students, and now a series of gifts and grants have made it possible to provide even more support to these students.

Recently the college received a $1.1 million legacy gift from Gwen and Rudy Godinez, whose lives were enriched by the college’s Telesis program, a pioneering adult education initiative that offered non-degree courses in health, wellness, and personal growth.

The Godinezes participated in Telesis courses and became deeply inspired by the determination of Alverno students, many of whom were the first in their families to attend college. Moved by the transformative power of an Alverno education, they chose to leave a gift that will help ensure future generations of students have opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive.

“This extraordinary gift reflects a lifetime of values—hard work, lifelong learning, and care for others. And it will continue to transform lives at Alverno for years to come,” said Michele Kitson, vice president for advancement at Alverno.

The gift will be used to fund scholarships for first-generation undergraduate students beginning in the fall of 2026. The scholarships will cover the gap between gift aid and the cost of tuition and fees. “We know that being the first in your family to go to college takes courage, determination, and vision,” said Mariana Sanabria, vice president for enrollment at Alverno College. “These scholarships will allow students to focus on discovering their strengths, building community, and shaping the future.”

Additionally, the college received several grants from community partners to help fund scholarships for first-generation students. These grants include $30,000 from the Johnson Controls Foundation, $20,000 from the ROS Foundation, and $10,000 from the Dr. Scholl Foundation.

Because 71 percent of Alverno’s undergraduate students are first-generation, these generous donations will go a long way toward supporting the student body.