The University of New Mexico announced on May 8 that it has received a $30 million commitment from Gail and Jim Ellis, marking the largest philanthropic gift from an individual or couple in the university’s 135-year history. The donation will transform the business school, increase access for students, and support economic growth in New Mexico.
The Anderson School of Management will be renamed The James and Gail Ellis School of Business Leadership to honor this contribution. This is the first time a college or school at the university has been named for a philanthropic investment.
“This gift expands what’s possible for our students and positions UNM to build a nationally recognized business school grounded in excellence, equity, and opportunity,” said UNM President Garnett S. Stokes. “The Business School built a strong reputation over nearly 80 years, producing graduates who went on to lead businesses, nonprofits, and public institutions across New Mexico and beyond. What the Ellis family has made possible is the next chapter of that story.”
The donation includes a permanent endowment supporting scholarships, faculty development, experiential learning programs such as internships and competitions, as well as curriculum updates aligned with current economic demands. Five million dollars are designated as a challenge fund to match large new contributions by other donors.
Dean Alina Chircu said: “This is a defining moment for our school and for the students we serve. The Ellis family’s investment gives us the platform to compete nationally while staying rooted in the communities and the state that make UNM what it is.” Jeffrey Todd, President and CEO of the UNM Foundation added: “Robert O. Anderson’s name has been part of this school’s story since 1974… The Ellis family’s investment marks the next phase of that trajectory… We are deeply grateful to Gail and James for their confidence in what UNM can become.”
Jim Ellis is an alumnus who earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from UNM in 1968 before completing an MBA at Harvard University; he later served twelve years as dean at USC’s Marshall School of Business. Gail Ellis holds advanced degrees in clinical psychology with experience working with college students; her grandfather founded Galvin Manufacturing Company (later Motorola). “UNM opened doors for me,” Jim Ellis said. “It gave me the foundation to build a career across business, academia, and global markets… If we do this right, the impact will be measured in the strength of the communities our graduates serve.”
Phelps Anderson expressed support on behalf of his family: “The Anderson family is deeply grateful for the honor our father received and wholeheartedly supports the business school as it turns toward a new chapter… We know he would have wanted what is best for UNM.”
The University enrolls more than 24,000 students across its campuses each spring semester; it boasts over 200,000 alumni worldwide including national academy fellows; its athletics program competes at high levels; its campus features distinctive architecture; it serves as an important cultural resource promoting diversity; it also ranks among top public schools nationally according to the official website.
