Kellogg’s $70M Gift to Fuel Executive Education Hub, Redefine Hybrid Learning

EVANSTON, IL – November 18, 2025

The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University announced today a transformational $70 million donation from alumna Ann McIlrath Drake ('84 MBA), establishing the Ann McIlrath Drake Executive Center. This gift, the largest in Kellogg’s history, signals a significant investment in the future of executive education and a commitment to redefining how future business leaders are trained. The new center, slated to open in Fall 2027, will serve as the primary hub for Kellogg's Executive MBA and Executive Education programs, emphasizing a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes global collaboration and integrated, hybrid learning experiences.

A Legacy of Leadership and a Vision for the Future

Ann Drake’s philanthropic commitment extends beyond financial support, reflecting a dedication to fostering women’s leadership and driving innovation in supply chain management. Drake founded Lincoln Road Enterprises and AWESOME (Achieving Women’s Excellence in Supply Chain Operations, Management and Education), demonstrating a long-standing passion for empowering future generations of business leaders. “This gift is a testament to Ann’s unwavering commitment to excellence in business education and her belief in the power of leadership,” stated a source familiar with the donation. “She wants to create a space where executives can not only acquire knowledge but also cultivate the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a complex and rapidly changing world.”

The Ann McIlrath Drake Executive Center is designed to be more than just a physical space; it’s envisioned as a collaborative ecosystem where participants from diverse backgrounds can connect, learn from each other, and address pressing global challenges. The center’s curriculum will emphasize experiential learning, incorporating real-world case studies, simulations, and opportunities for international immersion. “The goal is to prepare executives to be agile, resilient, and adaptable – qualities that are essential for success in today’s business environment,” added another source.

Redefining Executive Education for a Hybrid World

The $70 million donation comes at a crucial time for executive education, as business schools grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements, globalization, and the evolving needs of today’s workforce. The demand for flexible, accessible, and customized learning options is growing, and hybrid learning models are becoming increasingly prevalent.

Kellogg’s new center will embrace this trend, offering a blend of in-person and online learning experiences designed to cater to the busy schedules of today’s executives. The curriculum will leverage cutting-edge technology to deliver engaging and interactive content, fostering a collaborative learning environment that transcends geographical boundaries. “We believe that the future of executive education lies in creating a seamless blend of online and in-person learning,” explained a program director at Kellogg. “This allows us to reach a wider audience and provide a more personalized learning experience.” The investment in technology will also enable Kellogg to expand its reach globally, attracting executives from diverse backgrounds and industries.

Beyond Bricks and Mortar: The Growing Role of Philanthropy in Higher Education

The Ann McIlrath Drake Executive Center is part of a broader trend of large philanthropic gifts transforming university campuses and shaping the future of higher education. These gifts are often earmarked for specific initiatives, such as new facilities, research programs, or scholarships, allowing universities to invest in areas of strategic importance.

Kellogg’s $600 million ‘Full Circle’ campaign, of which Drake’s gift is a cornerstone, underscores the growing reliance on private funding to support innovation and enhance the quality of business education. While public funding for higher education remains important, philanthropic gifts are playing an increasingly vital role in bridging the gap between resource constraints and ambitious institutional goals.

“Philanthropy is essential for ensuring that business schools can continue to attract top talent, conduct cutting-edge research, and provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a competitive global economy,” noted an education policy analyst. “Gifts like the one from Ann Drake send a strong signal about the importance of investing in the future of business education.” The emergence of dedicated executive education centers, like the one at Kellogg, reflects a growing recognition of the importance of lifelong learning and the need to equip business leaders with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate an increasingly complex and uncertain world. This trend demonstrates a fundamental shift in how executive education is delivered, with an emphasis on flexibility, personalization, and accessibility.