Grove City College has received its largest donation in history from the estate of a longtime member of the college's Board of Trustees.

According to a press release, the estate of David Rathburn donated a $70 million gift to enable the college to increase student and financial aid, fund campus building projects and continue its momentum toward a firmer financial future.

Rathburn's estate called for 75% of the donation to go towards the college's financial aid endowment to fund need and merit-based scholarships for students. The remaining 25% is earmarked for capital improvement projects. 

Rathburn died following a battle with cancer in February of 2024. He served for several years on the college's Board of Trustees, acting as the chair of the Board for 17 years.

According to the release, Rathburn had donated millions to the college during his lifetime and the latest donation from his estate is the largest single gift the college has ever received.

"David Rathburn now stands as the single most generous donor in [Grove City] College history. But the impact of his contributions of 'time, talent and treasure' are beyond measure. He leaves a legacy of leadership and philanthropy for the ages," said Grove City College Vice President for Advancement Jeffrey Prokovich.