Taylor University Receives $5 Million Gift from Ken and Virginia Cornwall

Taylor University has received a $5 million gift from Ken and Virginia Cornwall of suburban Atlanta, Georgia. The gift will fund numerous projects within the Taylor Thrives five-year strategic plan, including construction and renovation projects like the Stillman Fieldhouse renovation, the Hodson Dining Commons event space, and the Nussbaum Science Center renovation, which will house the future School of Nursing. In addition, a portion of the gift will go toward the President’s Growth Fund and the Taylor Fund, which provide funding for new opportunities for the University and students.  

This is the second gift from the Cornwalls in two years and the latest installment in a decade of generous donations from the couple. In 2022, Taylor received a $3 million gift from the Cornwalls for the Horne Academic Center, opening in 2024, which will house Taylor’s award-winning Film & Media Arts program and provide space for the development of a new innovation and entrepreneurial hub. 

Ken Cornwall, president and CEO of ProSet/ProVent Systems began manufacturing innovative plumbing products in the early 1980s. Cornwall holds over 50 patents, and his worldwide customers include major hotels, entertainment venues like Disney World, professional sports stadiums, and the Department of Defense. He calls Taylor his college and was recognized with an honorary Doctor of Business in 2014 by President Eugene Habecker and President Emeritus Jay Kesler for his contributions to the manufacturing industry and his commitment to a biblically anchored and Christ-centered life. 

“The Cornwalls want to support Christian higher education, and they consider Taylor the best way to do that,” said Tom Green ’81, Regional Development Director. “We are humbled by their extraordinary generosity and feel a deep responsibility to steward these resources well for the Kingdom.” 

To support the Taylor Thrives strategic plan or other Taylor initiatives, visit taylor.edu/give.