New College Foundation’s Pei for the Future Campaign Receives $50k Match Offer

March 15, 2021

The New College Foundation’s Pei for the Future campaign just received a major boost. Philanthropist Jack Schlegel, a Foundation board member, and his wife, Priscilla Schlegel, recently gave the Foundation $50,000 to be used toward the initiative—gifts of $1,000 of more will be matched up to $50,000. Spearheaded by Monica Van Buskirk, a Foundation board member, the $15 million campaign will refurbish the college’s residence halls designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei. 

“We are deeply grateful to Jack and Priscilla,” says Van Buskirk. “This gives our campaign the kick it needs to inspire alumni and community members to participate in preserving this extraordinary architectural legacy.”

Van Buskirk notes that campaign funds will be used to replace roofs, seal buildings against water intrusion, install new cooling and heating systems, renew the courtyards, and renovate and upgrade the dormitory rooms. 

“These efforts will ensure the value of Pei’s buildings well into the future,” she says. “They will also keep this unique chapter of Sarasota’s architectural history alive.” 

Van Buskirk stresses that time is of the essence.

“This is a critical need, and we need to act quickly,” says Van Buskirk. “Time and the buildings’ proximity to the water has not been kind. Pei’s New College structures are priceless jewels in our region’s architectural legacy. Thanks to this campaign, they will shine once more.” 

For more information about Pei for the Future campaign, visit ncf.edu/peiforthefuture. For more information about I.M. Pei’s history at New College, visit https://www.ncf.edu/about/our-campus/pei/.

For more information about New College Foundation, call 941-487-4800 or visit www.ncf.edu/alumni-and-friends.