Covenant College has received a $4 million gift from the estate of Mr. Lowell Andreas and a $1 million grant from a foundation that wishes to remain anonymous.

Lowell Andreas of Naples, Florida, and Mankato, Minnesota, was a former president of Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) Company, and loved philosophy and Reformed theology. His pastor, Jim Conrad ’62, introduced Mr. Andreas to Covenant College, and as he learned more about Covenant’s mission and purpose, Mr. Andreas became a generous donor.

The College’s newest residence hall, opened in the fall of 2007, was named in his honor. Mr. Andreas gave liberally despite having no family connection to Covenant and having never stepped foot on the College’s campus.

“Lowell’s appreciation for and commitment to Covenant grew over fifteen years, across administration and staff changes and culminating in this marvelous legacy gift from his estate,” said Covenant College President Niel Nielson. “We are deeply grateful for his deep convictions about Christian education and Covenant College education in particular, and we rejoice that generations will enjoy the blessing of his foresight and generosity. Thanks be to God!”

The gift of $4 million from the estate of Lowell Andreas, on the heels of a $1 million grant from an anonymous foundation, is the largest single gift in the history of Covenant College.

“It is amazing to look back and see how God wove together relationships and people to create this story and bless Covenant more than we could imagine,” said Vice President for Advancement Troy Duble. “Especially in this challenging economic environment, these funds will help us meet some of the goals we have already set.”

“It is also encouraging for the College and the Chattanooga area to see outside investments like these in the work taking place right here on Lookout Mountain,” said Duble.