Shonda Rhimes is rewriting the script, as soon as once more, besides this time, at her alma mater.
The award-winning creator and producer behind “Gray’s Anatomy” and “Bridgerton” has pledged $15 million to Dartmouth Faculty to fund a brand new undergraduate residence corridor. The constructing, set to open in fall 2028, might be named Shonda Rhimes Corridor, marking the primary time in Dartmouth’s historical past {that a} constructing will carry the identify of a lady or a Black particular person.
The mission is a part of Dartmouth President Sian Leah Beilock’s $500 million plan to sort out the varsity’s scholar housing scarcity by including 1,000 beds for college students, college, and employees over the subsequent 9 years. In accordance with Dartmouth Information, Shonda Rhimes Corridor will home 115 juniors and seniors and is designed to “strengthen … the coed group.”
Rhimes informed the outlet she hopes her present will encourage college students to chase their goals past campus.
“At a time when it seems like persons are questioning the worth of upper schooling, it feels essential to place my a reimbursement into greater schooling,” she stated.
Rhimes has all the time stored Dartmouth shut, even weaving her alma mater into popular culture. “Gray’s Anatomy” protagonist Meredith Gray, for instance, is written as a Dartmouth alumna and has been noticed repping Dartmouth gear on display screen. Rhimes additionally gave the Class of 2014 graduation speech and often visits campus as a trustee. That presence issues for college students who see themselves mirrored in her success.
Dartmouth understands the ability of illustration. Earlier this month, Shea Moisture introduced the continuation and enlargement of its partnership with the Ivy League’s enterprise college to help girls entrepreneurs.
Rhimes is scheduled to return to her alma mater on Oct. 18 for a fireplace chat with fellow alum and leisure skilled, Mindy Kaling.
