Kenosha---Carthage College has just received its largest, single contribution in school history.
Longtime benefactor Jan Tarble donated $15 million to create a career and welcome center, enhance career readiness programs and fund a pair of endowments that'll promote the development of new internships and study abroad programs. The money will also be used to hire additional staff.
In a news release, Ms. Tarble said she recognizes the value of a liberal arts education, and said she hopes her gift will give students an edge in career readiness. "What could be more important than helping young people build a valuable life and finding good ways to use their Carthage education?" she said.
Ms. Tarble's father, the late Newton E. Tarble, was one of the four principal founders of Kenosha-based Snap-On Tools. Over the years, the family has contributed millions to the school. The school's field house carries their name.
Jan Tarble, a Los Angeles area resident, has had careers in pottery and art and once was a professional golfer. In recent years, Tarble has led a life "filled with studied philanthropy in support of higher education, health care and orphaned children," according to Carthage President Gregory S. Woodward. "I wish that everyone at Carthage could have the chance to meet this extraordinary woman," he said.
Yet to be decided, according to a school spokesman, is whether the career and welcome center will be housed in a new building or carved out of existing space.
Over the past four years, Carthage has added a director of employer relations and internships, created almost 200 new paid internships through a $350,000 grant, launched the Carthage in Chicago semester program, and started a mentoring initiative to pair students with alumni in their fields, according to the release.
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