Saint Mary’s College has received a landmark $7.5 million gift from alumna Lorraine Sheehan Wilson, Class of 1985, and her husband Chris Wilson (ND ’85), establishing the Wilson Sheehan Scholarship Fund—the largest cash scholarship gift in the College’s history.
This multi-million dollar investment will provide need-based scholarships to Saint Mary’s students beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year, with many recipients receiving support for all four years. The fund reflects the mission of the Wilson Sheehan Foundation created by Lorraine and Chris to reduce poverty and expand opportunity through education.
“When Chris and I formed our foundation, it was always about opportunity—opening doors, providing access,” said Lorraine. Chris added, “We’re strong believers in giving people the opportunity to succeed.”
Longtime supporters of Saint Mary’s, the Wilsons made the gift at a pivotal moment in the College’s trajectory. Enrollment has grown in recent years, alongside expanded efforts to reach students who may have once viewed a Saint Mary’s education as unattainable. Their investment will play a central role in the College’s comprehensive campaign, Ring Out Ring True, which launches publicly on June 6, 2026.
“This leadership gift directly advances our commitment to access, belonging, and student success,” said President Katie Conboy. “Lorraine and Chris have already demonstrated a deep dedication to Saint Mary’s students. This transformative investment ensures that many more young women will benefit from the life-changing power of a Saint Mary’s education.”
National data underscores the importance of such investments. Rising college costs and persistent inequities in K–12 education have contributed to an “excellence gap,” where high-achieving, low-income students often forgo selective institutions due to perceived cost barriers. At Saint Mary’s, 100 percent of incoming students receive a scholarship or grant.
Lorraine and Chris Wilson’s connection to Saint Mary’s dates back to their first year of college, when they met as students at Saint Mary’s and the University of Notre Dame. Their shared belief in education as a catalyst for opportunity has guided both their philanthropy and their continued engagement with the College. Lorraine currently serves on the Saint Mary’s College Board of Trustees and as vice chair.
“Our philanthropy has always been people-focused,” Chris Wilson said. “When you invest in a student, you’re investing not just in her future, but in the generations that follow.”
