Houghton University Endowment Surpasses $100 Million

“One of the clear evidences of the Lord’s provision for Houghton University is in the rapid growth of our endowment,” remarked President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. “Alumni and friends continue to give sacrificially to ensure Houghton’s mission of equipping fearless Christian scholar-servants who will impact the world for Christ. Additionally, the stewardship by the Board of Trustees’ Investment Committee has been instrumental in the endowment’s growth. Crossing $100 million is a milestone worth celebrating. I could not be more grateful for the Lord’s blessings and for the many men and women over the years who have made this possible.”

Houghton University’s endowment is comprised of hundreds of individual endowed scholarship funds, endowed programmatic funds, and unrestricted endowment. These funds enable Houghton to continue providing an academically challenging, Christ-centered liberal arts education. Programmatic endowment funds ensure that vital curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular programs continue to provide a robust student experience. Unrestricted endowment provides flexibility on an annual basis to enhance the student experience and invest in Houghton’s future.

“This milestone is only possible because of the exceptional commitment of our incredibly generous alumni and friends,” explains Karl Sisson, Vice President for Advancement and External Engagement. “The accelerated growth of our endowment in recent years positions Houghton University for an even brighter future and strengthens our ability to meet our vital mission. The continued growth of endowment will remain a priority as we invite and inspire donors to create their legacies through Houghton.”

More than half of Houghton University’s 370 endowed scholarship funds have been created since 2011. This includes 20 endowed class scholarships, created to foster the legacy of past graduating classes, which now total over $2.7 million. In 2025, the Ellen F. Donley Dean of Education & Behavioral Sciences was created, an endowed chair honoring the life and legacy of a Houghton alumna from the Class of 1938. Over the last year, new programmatic endowment funds have included the Peter and Karin Lee Science Equipment Fund, the Music Ministry Travel Fund, and the Staff Development Fund. Additionally, all 15 intercollegiate sports teams now have a unique endowment fund, and Highlander Athletics is further supported by a general Athletics Endowment Fund and the Kristopher W. Clester Intramural and Club Sports Fund.

To learn more about opportunities to solidify your legacy through Houghton and contribute to the growth of endowment, please contact the Houghton University Office of Advancement at 585-567-9340 or advancement@houghton.edu.