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Alumna Gift to Support Johnson Hall

Meredith College proudly announces the receipt of a $1 million gift from Bobbitt Clay Williams and her husband Bill Williams of Newport Beach, Calif. The gift commemorates the couple’s 60th wedding anniversary.

Bobbitt Williams, a 1957 graduate of Meredith, said the gift was meaningful to her because she loved her days at Meredith and believes Meredith has directly contributed to the wonderful life she has led.  Further, she says, the gift would have made her mother, Parrieleigh Clay, of Rocky Mount, N.C., quite proud.

“My mother was the kindest and most generous woman, sharing so much of what she had with others. Most important were her values, her family, and her friends.”

When asked about the purpose behind the gift, she said, “Bill and I are delighted to make a gift that helps women get an excellent education.”

Meredith will use the funds to support renovations to Johnson Hall, the historically iconic main administration building for the College.  In honor of the gift, a suite of offices will be named the Bobbitt Clay Williams Executive Suite and is expected to open in the spring.

“Meredith College is grateful to the Williams family for their gift, which is a touching tribute to the life they’ve built together and evidence of the lasting impact of the Meredith experience,” said President Jo Allen.

This gift is part of Meredith’s Beyond Strong campaign, which is building momentum toward the College’s 125th anniversary in 2016. The campaign supports six priorities identified through the College’s strategic plan: educational excellence, optimal enrollment, enhanced financial strength, cutting edge facilities and technology, greater visibility, and enhanced quality of life.

Learn more at meredith.edu/beyondstrong

Melyssa Allen

News Director
316 Johnson Hall
(919) 760-8087
Fax: (919) 760-8330

allenme@meredith.edu