The Pennsylvania Institute of Technology in Media announced last week the gift of nearly $4 million from the Walter R. Garrison Foundation, the largest capital gift in the school’s history.
The contribution will enhance the college’s educational facilities and continue its mission of providing exceptional learning experiences consistent with Walter R. Garrison’s legacy of dedication to education and innovation, officials said in a press release.
The funds will be used for two major initiatives, the first being the creation of the Walter R. Garrison College of Nursing, with $2.2 million earmarked to convert existing spaces into a state-of-the-art facility for a new nursing program registered nurses.
This program, along with the pre-nursing and practical nursing programs, will form the new Walter R. Garrison College of Nursing, with the new name taking effect January 1.
The second initiative involves upgrading the school’s main entrance space to make it the “Walter R. Garrison Gateway to Success.”
$1.68 million will be used to make the entrance accessible to the congregation and collaboration, reflecting Garrison’s vision of opportunity.
School officials note that the college’s history spans 71 years, and over the decades, students have embarked on rewarding careers, positively impacting their lives and the lives of their families.
Graduates excel in fields such as nursing, healthcare management, cannabis studies, and diagnostic medical sonography, as well as many other in-demand careers.
In the early 1950s, Garrison recognized the need for engineers in the aeronautical and civil/architectural fields, which formed the basis of the school.
Two campuses in Upper Darby hosted classes in mathematics, stress analysis and technical subjects.
By 1976, the Pennsylvania Department of Education had approved PIT to award specialized associate degrees, leading to a move in 1982 to the spacious 14-acre Rose Valley-Media campus. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education accredited PIT in 1983, and in 2021 permission was granted to offer bachelor’s degree programs.
“This gift is a testament to Walter R. Garrison’s enduring commitment to education,” said PIT President Matt Meyers. “This allows PIT to continue its legacy of expanding and enhancing our programs, enriching the lives of our students and the broader community.”
Barton Winokur, president of the Walter R. Garrison Foundation, said, “Walter believed strongly in the potential of education to transform lives. This gift aims to continue his vision, ensuring that PIT continues to cultivate talent and prepare students for impactful careers. We are honored to support such a vital institution and its mission.
Garrison’s statue, visible on campus, honors his lasting impact on the school.
Additionally, foundation representative Walter Strine, a local businessman and philanthropist, has joined the PIT Board of Directors to foster continued collaboration to maintain an educational environment that embodies Garrison’s vision, enhanced by the strategic support of the foundation.