Giving the Gift of Education: David & Jane Wilson
Oct 31, 2020 9:00 AM
Although David Wilson, Ph.D., '99 Hon., P'98 and Jane Wilson P'98 have a wide range of philanthropic interests, none are as important to them as education.
David Wilson has been proudly involved in supporting JWU since the 1990s. As a member of the National Board of the Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, he became acquainted with fellow board member and Chancellor Emeritus John Bowen '77, who began sharing stories from the university. This led to a long-standing relationship between Johnson & Wales and The Chaîne Foundation, which has contributed more than $800,000 in charitable donations to support scholarships for culinary and hospitality students.
But the Wilsons’ JWU connection deepened even further when their son Sean decided to attend the College of Hospitality Management. “The educational content was, without a doubt, exceptional,” notes Wilson. “But the most powerful values Sean cultivated at JWU were the commitment and dedication that one needs to thrive.”
As the parent of an alum, a Trustee, an honorary degree recipient and a donor, Wilson is fully immersed in Johnson & Wales. His experience as a donor reinforces his belief that Wildcats have limitless potential when opportunities are accessible.
The Wilsons continue to increase their personal financial support of JWU students while inspiring others to join them.
During this time of need for so many students, the family are generously sponsoring a matching gift challenge to close out 2020 on a positive note. All gifts made by December 31 will be matched by the Wilsons dollar for dollar, up to $50,000.
Whether you are a loyal donor and member of the Mary & Gertrude Society or you have not yet made your first gift to JWU, you can double your impact today. Together, our support adds up and the JWU community can truly make an impact.