Paul Smith’s College Receives $20 Million Pledge

Paul Smith's College in upstate New York has announced that the State Board of Regents has approved its request to add Joan Weill's name alongside that of the school's founding family in recognition of her longtime support. Pending approval of the name change by a New York State court, Joan and Sanford Weill have pledged $20 million to enable Joan Weill-Paul Smith's College to increase the size of its student body.

As a board member, Joan Weill spearheaded the school's conversion to a four-year institution, and as an emeritus board member she remains active as a fundraiser. Over the past 20 years, the Weills have contributed nearly $10 million and helped raise almost $30 million more for the school. Those efforts have resulted in a new campus library, a refurbished and remodeled student center, and two endowed scholarships.