Alverno College Receives $1.1 Million Legacy Gift

MILWAUKEE, (Oct. 16, 2025) – Alverno College has 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.

After retirement, 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 fall 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.”

About Alverno College
Based in Milwaukee, Wis., Alverno College is a four-year independent, Catholic, liberal arts college for women. Founded in 1887 by the School Sisters of St. Francis, Alverno promotes the academic, personal and professional development of its students in a collaborative and inclusive environment. Graduate programs, digital badges, degree completion programs and certificate programs are open to all genders. A leader in higher education innovation, Alverno has earned international accolades for its highly effective ability-based, assessment-as-learning approach to education, which emphasizes hands-on experience and develops in-demand skills. The college, Wisconsin’s first Hispanic-Serving Institution, ranks among the top schools in the Midwest for its commitment to undergraduate teaching and innovation by U.S. News & World Report.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.