A $7 million gift from David Reese ’62 and his wife, Weezie, will help ensure that a life-shaping Denison education remains accessible for all admitted students.
The Reese family’s transformative gift will enhance their endowed scholarship fund, which is dedicated to reducing student loan debt and ensuring that Denison can meet 100% of the demonstrated need for talented students from all backgrounds.
“David’s generosity and vision underscore the deep connection between the Reese family and the college,” said Denison President Adam Weinberg. “Their incredible support will allow us to provide generations of Denison students a life-shaping liberal arts education that launches them quickly and successfully into lives and careers.”
In recognition of this gift, the college will rename the newly renovated and expanded Beth Eden to Reese House in honor of David’s late father, Everett David Reese.
Weezie and David Reese ’62
Everett Reese was a distinguished banking executive, philanthropist, and former trustee of Denison University. He and his wife, Gay Reese, were highly regarded in Licking County, and their legacy remains prominent both in the local community and on Denison’s campus. The naming of Reese House will preserve his memory and stand as a testament to Denison’s enduring commitment to student success and educational excellence.
“I’m proud to honor my father’s legacy and support Denison in a way that makes a true impact on students,” David Reese said. “Denison has always been an important part of our family, and I hope this gift helps future students thrive as they chart their own paths.”
The Reese family’s commitment to Denison runs deep. Since their first gift to the college nearly 50 years ago, David and Weezie Reese have consistently supported the college’s strategic priorities, including investments in the arts, campus facilities, athletics, financial aid, and more. The Reese name can be seen across campus in places such as the Reese Memorial Garden, Reese~Shackelford Common, and the Martha Grace Reese Theatre Lobby.
In recognition of David Reese’s gift, the college will rename the newly renovated and expanded Beth Eden to Reese House in honor of David’s late father, Everett David Reese.
More than any other initiative at Denison, the Reeses have long been champions of ensuring that a Denison education remains affordable to all students who earn admission.
“Denison’s incredible successes are a reflection of those who so generously support the college,” said Greg Bader, vice president for institutional advancement. “We are deeply grateful for the Reese family’s continued philanthropy, which helps the university offer students the opportunities and resources they need to excel both on The Hill and beyond.”