A GALA & A GIFT. Local technical college CVTC had a lot to celebrate at its 2026 Foundation Gala – including a $10 million legacy gift commitment. (Photo via CVTC)

Attendees of the Chippewa Valley Technical College’s (CVTC) Foundation Gala on Thursday, Feb. 26, were witness to a historic moment: A local couple, who wish to remain anonymous, committed their life’s belongings – expected to exceed $10 million – to the college.

In a media release shared March 2, CVTC named the legacy gift “one the most significant” in the institution’s 100-plus-year history.

“Over the course of their lives, the donors accumulated meaningful personal items and experiences, including time spent living abroad,” the release stated. Those items, including furniture, books and more, have significant monetary value.

"We really wanted to do something that would be helpful for the community ... and we kept coming back to the thought of CVTC."

ANONYMOUS DONORS

CHIPPEWA VALLEY COUPLE ON THEIR $10 MILLION LEGACY GIFT

A video announced the legacy gift live at the gala. According to Adam Wehling, executive director of the CVTC Foundation, the donors are a couple local to the Chippewa Valley.

In thinking about what they would do with the wealth they have accumulated during their lives, the couple shared, “We really wanted to do something that would be helpful for the community … and we kept coming back to the thought of CVTC.”

The last significant donation – an anonymous gift of $500,000 made in 2023 – benefited the college’s Emergency Services Education Center, Wehling said. Today, the Center’s simulation building offers a training space for police, fire and EMS students, and local agencies and professionals.

“However, this current legacy donation is the first of its kind for CVTC,” Wehling said. “Planned giving has always been an opportunity for donors at CVTC but this marks the first of this size and scope. The donors hope this active of generosity will prompt others to consider CVTC when estate planning.

“They have said CVTC made significant impacts to their lives, and they want to pay it forward by supporting CVTC with this gift, which will have a lasting impact for many years,” he said.

Donations of all sizes support CVTC’s educational offerings – from its facilities and equipment to scholarships and students support – with numerous opportunities available to those who wish to donate to specific initiatives or uses.

Learn more about the Chippewa Valley Technical College online at www.cvtc.edu.