UNI’s First Named School Gets Official Approval

In October, we shared with you the news of a major donation being made to the University of Northern Iowa.

On Friday, October 20th officials from the University of Northern Iowa broke the news that a historic pledge was made that will benefit its business school. An alumnus pledged a gift of $25 million to UNI, this is the largest single gift in the college's history.

Officials confirm that this sizable donation will "chart a bold path for the future of the College of Business, fueling strategic initiatives and investing in faculty and students."

The College of Business will be renamed to honor the former student who gave the college millions of dollars. This was pending approval from a very important group.

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University officials recently announced that the Iowa Board of Regents approved UNI's first named college. It will be called David W. Wilson College of Business after the generous donation from Mr. Wilson.

“We’re honored that the Wilson College of Business will forever stand as a testament to David’s belief in the power of the University of Northern Iowa education while providing resources to foster innovation for the future,” said UNI President Mark Nook.

Officials claim that the money from this donation will go to "elevate ethics and integrity education" as well as establish scholarships within the program.

The donation establishes the Wilson Endowment for Integrity and Excellence. A portion of this gift will also set up the Wilson Scholars Fund which will give renewable scholarships for students from Tama County.

Who Is This David Wilson Guy Anyway?

David W. Wilson is a 1970 graduate of the University of Northern Iowa and a Tama County native. Traer is Wilson's hometown.

The alumnus also is the chairman and CEO of Wilson Automotive, which is one of the largest privately held auto dealerships in the nation, according to reports.

“It is our hope that this contribution will foster instruction that reveals the importance of maintaining ethical principles in the corporate environment at all levels of business,” Wilson said.

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