Miami University gets largest gift in school history with $100M from Farmer family

On a crisp autumn day in Oxford, Ohio, the hum of excitement buzzed through the historic campus of Miami University. Students, faculty, and community members gathered in anticipation, unaware that they were about to witness a moment etched into the university’s legacy. As the sun cast a warm glow, the university announced a transformative gift — a staggering $100 million from the Farmer Family Foundation, the largest donation in the school’s 217-year history. This generous act not only highlights the enduring bond between the Farmer family and Miami University but also signifies a renewed commitment to shaping future leaders grounded in faith, family, and community.

What’s Behind the Historic Gift

The donation, announced on November 5, 2026, marks a milestone for Miami University, one that underscores the importance of community-driven philanthropy in higher education. The $100 million gift will predominantly bolster the Farmer School of Business, with $55 million allocated over the next three years to enhance programs, facilities, and career readiness initiatives. This infusion of funds is among the largest ever given to a public undergraduate business school in the United States, positioning Miami as a leader in cultivating responsible, innovative business professionals.

According to university President Gregory Crawford, this gift will propel the Farmer School of Business to new heights. “Generations of Miami students will benefit from their remarkable generosity,” he stated. The funds will be directed toward integrating cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence, into the curriculum, ensuring students are prepared for a rapidly evolving job market. The focus on tech fluency and ethical leadership reflects a broader commitment to developing well-rounded individuals rooted in faith and integrity.

The Farmer Family’s Legacy of Giving

The Farmer family’s longstanding relationship with Miami University is rooted in deep personal and community values. Scott Farmer, son of Dick and Joyce Farmer, emphasized that their parents’ time at Miami shaped their lives profoundly. “Our parents were shaped by their time at Miami, and a love of the university was passed down to their children,” he shared. Dick Farmer, a Miami alumnus from the 1950s, went on to found Cintas Corporation, a Cincinnati-based company that has become a national leader in business services.

Joyce Farmer expressed pride in supporting the university’s mission. “From the wonderful faculty to the impressive students, the Farmer School is truly one of the top business schools in the country,” she said. Their philanthropic focus aligns with their desire to foster excellence, innovation, and leadership, all values that resonate deeply within the Cincinnati community and beyond. Their commitment exemplifies the strength of family-driven philanthropy rooted in faith, service, and a desire to uplift others.

Community Impact and Future Directions

This historic gift extends beyond the university’s campus; it reflects a broader vision for community development and economic growth in Greater Cincinnati. The Farmer Family Foundation’s focus on local needs means that the impact of this donation will ripple outward, supporting initiatives that prepare young people for meaningful careers while strengthening the local economy. The investment in artificial intelligence and data literacy will help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, ensuring students are equipped to lead responsibly in a technology-driven future.

Moreover, this donation underscores the importance of faith-based and family-centered values in shaping a thriving community. Miami University, often called the “Harvard of the Midwest,” is renowned for fostering a sense of purpose and integrity in its students. As families and community leaders celebrate this milestone, they recognize that strong marriages, committed families, and authentic faith are the bedrock of a resilient society. The Farmer family’s generosity echoes these principles, inspiring others to invest in education, community, and the enduring American dream of opportunity through hard work and faithfulness.

Looking ahead, Miami University plans to expand its outreach and scholarship programs, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder talented students from pursuing their dreams. The university’s “For love. For honor. For those who will.” campaign aims to rally further support, emphasizing the role of community and faith in building a brighter future. As the university continues to grow and evolve, its partnerships with local families like the Farmers serve as a testament to the power of faith-driven philanthropy in shaping generations of leaders.

For families in Cincinnati and across Ohio, this historic donation is more than a financial milestone — it’s a beacon of hope, faith, and community commitment. It reminds us that when we invest in our youth and uphold the values of integrity and service, we lay a foundation for a future where every child has the opportunity to succeed. As Miami University embarks on this new chapter, it reaffirms its role as a nurturing ground for morally grounded, innovative leaders who will carry their community’s values into the world.

Local Context: Miami University’s Role in the Cincinnati Region

Miami University’s influence extends far beyond the campus in Oxford. Located just about 40 miles north of Cincinnati, the university has long been a vital part of the regional economy and cultural fabric. Its proximity to Cincinnati means that many local businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies collaborate closely with Miami, leveraging its resources for workforce development and community initiatives.

Over the years, Miami has become a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, especially in fields like business, education, and health sciences. The university’s partnerships with Cincinnati’s vibrant arts scene, tech startups, and corporate giants like Cintas and Procter & Gamble have fostered a dynamic ecosystem that benefits both students and local residents. The recent donation from the Farmer family further cements Miami’s role as a catalyst for regional growth, attracting more investment and talent to the area.

Local leaders, including Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval and Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus, have praised the gift, emphasizing how it will help create jobs, support small businesses, and develop future leaders rooted in community values. The university’s commitment to expanding access through scholarships and outreach programs aligns with Cincinnati’s broader goals of economic inclusion and social mobility.

Profiles of Key People Involved

Scott Farmer

Scott Farmer, who spoke at the announcement, is a prominent Cincinnati business leader and the current executive chairman of Cintas Corporation. Under his leadership, Cintas has grown into a Fortune 200 company, with a reputation for quality and innovation. Scott’s deep ties to Miami University run through his family’s history, and he has been actively involved in supporting higher education and community initiatives in Cincinnati for decades. His words about the family’s pride and commitment resonate with many local families who see education as a pathway to opportunity.

Gregory Crawford

Miami University President Gregory Crawford has been at the helm since 2020, guiding the university through a period of growth and transformation. His vision emphasizes not only academic excellence but also community engagement and innovation. Crawford’s leadership has been instrumental in securing major donations like this one, positioning Miami as a nationally recognized institution that balances tradition with forward-thinking initiatives.

What Happens Next?

With the announcement of this historic gift, the university is poised to launch a series of initiatives aimed at maximizing its impact. The first priority is the development of new facilities and programs at the Farmer School of Business, including state-of-the-art classrooms equipped with the latest technology, and expanded internship and mentorship opportunities for students.

Additionally, Miami University plans to increase its scholarship offerings, particularly targeting students from underrepresented backgrounds and economically disadvantaged families. This aligns with the university’s broader mission to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus and in the community.

Community engagement will also take center stage. Miami plans to host a series of town halls and forums to involve local residents, business leaders, and students in shaping how the funds are utilized. These conversations will help ensure that the investment addresses the most pressing needs of the community, fostering a shared sense of ownership and pride.

The Farmer family’s ongoing involvement will likely include advisory roles and participation in community events, reinforcing the foundation of trust and shared purpose that has characterized their relationship with Miami University for decades. As the university embarks on this new chapter, it aims to serve as a beacon of faith, hope, and community resilience for the Cincinnati region and beyond.

For families in Cincinnati and across Ohio, this historic donation is more than a financial milestone — it’s a beacon of hope, faith, and community commitment. It reminds us that when we invest in our youth and uphold the values of integrity and service, we lay a foundation for a future where every child has the opportunity to succeed. As Miami University embarks on this new chapter, it reaffirms its role as a nurturing ground for morally grounded, innovative leaders who will carry their community’s values into the world.