On February 26, Framingham State University’s Danforth Museum and School received word that it is the recipient of a $100,000 unrestricted endowment gift.  Donors Katherine and Robert Eyre stated that they made the gift “to benefit the activities and initiatives of both the Museum and the Art School.”  This gift is the first to be specifically designated for an unrestricted endowment fund since the institution became part of Framingham State University.

“We are over the moon by this generous and unexpected gift,” said Museum Director and Curator, Jessica Roscio.  “It represents a level of commitment to our mission and programs that is truly humbling. We couldn’t be more appreciative!”

Bob and Katie Eyre are trustees of the Danforth Art Alliance, part of the Danforth’s volunteer leadership, and residents of Wayland. Since 2022 the State of Massachusetts has created a matching program as an incentive for creating new endowments for state colleges and universities. “We saw this program as an important and unique opportunity to leverage the impact of our donation to the Museum and School,” commented Bob.  

Through the support of additional generous donors, in the past five years the Danforth has also established endowed funds specific to museum education, art acquisition, curatorial support, art school scholarships, and conservation. The unrestricted nature of this recent gift will help support the Danforth across its departments and programs.

“For the Art School, the annual yield from this gift will help us augment existing programs or perhaps start new ones,” said Art School Director Noelle Fournier. “New revenue like this opens up opportunities for us, thanks to  Bob and Katie’s generosity.” 

In honor of their donation, the gallery in which the Museum shows its permanent collection will be named the Katherine and Robert Eyre Gallery.

The Danforth was founded in 1975, and became a part of Framingham State University in 2018.  It serves over thirty communities in MetroWest and beyond, and is the only museum with an art school between Boston and Worcester.