Pitzer College announced on March 29 that it has received a $1 million gift from Gloria Gold, a parent of an alumna, that will help fund renovations to the Gold Student Center (GSC).
While plans are not yet complete, the funds will go toward expanding several areas of the GSC, which was opened in 1995 with funding from the Gold family. The Center contains a fitness room, service desk, gallery, café, multi-purpose room, and student organizations office. According to Jim Marchant, Vice President of Student Affairs at Pitzer, “the renovation will most likely include a new and expanded front entrance, a larger and enhanced physical fitness space, and an improved and enlarged kitchen, and student lounge area.”
Marchant said he expects the college to use the entirety of the $1 million grant, but additional funds will also be required.
“Pitzer still needs to raise at least another million dollars before proceeding with the renovation,” he said.
Marchant said students could expect to see changes take shape within the next year and a half.
“If the College is successful in raising the additional funds soon, the renovation may [begin] in the next 12 to 18 months,” Marchant said.
Kevin Jaatinen PZ ’13 was pleased to learn of the donation.
“That’s great, especially since the new dorms are coming in nearby,” he said. “This will be a good way for students from freshmen to seniors to enjoy the Center, and build a sense of community.”
Gloria Gold is the parent of Melinda Gold Wiltsie PZ ’74. Several Gold family members have served on the Pitzer College Board of Trustees, including Gloria’s husband Peter Gold from 1976 to 1991, Melinda Gold Wiltsie from 1997-2003, and the Golds’ daughter-in-law Vicki Kates Gold from 2006 to present. Peter Gold also served as chair of the board from 1985 to 1991. Contributions from the Gold family have also helped fund a scholarship, a professorship, and Pitzer’s comprehensive Residential Life Project.