AATG announces $1,000,000 pledge for a new endowment to support students of German

The AATG, the oldest and largest organization dedicated to supporting the study of German language, literature, and culture in the US, is thrilled to announce a landmark pledge in support of multilingualism and language learning. This generous pledge will create a new endowment supporting university-level students throughout the United States.

The anonymous donor’s commitment to language learning will foster the study of German and contribute to cross-cultural understanding and economic development, as well as create opportunities for students where support is lacking.

Dr. Michael R. Shaughnessy, Executive Director of the AATG states, “Language learning has great benefits, so access needs to be expanded beyond the wealthiest districts. There’s this myth that the USA doesn’t value language learning. Quite the opposite! In almost all of the elite college prep schools, elite universities, and in elite training programs for the government, language learning is very well funded and promoted. It’s not a secret that multilingualism provides extra-disciplinary benefits; the secret is that so many students in the US don’t have access to programs. This new endowment is one important step in lowering barriers and creating new paths of access for students. It is my hope that the anonymous donor’s gift inspires more support for students and additional new endowments! The AATG is always seeking new ways to support our nation’s students who are eager to be engaged at a global level.”

About the AATG:

Founded in 1926 by college and high school educators in the New York City area, the AATG promotes the study of the German-speaking world in all its linguistic, cultural, and ethnic diversity, and endeavors to prepare students as transnational, transcultural learners and active, multilingual participants in a globalized world.

The AATG is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) entity. All outright gifts, bequests, and transfers are deductible for federal estate and tax gift purposes.

The AATG currently has three dedicated, restricted endowments. The new endowment will be added to this list.

For information on our funds and to make tax-deductible donations, visit: www.aatg.org/products/donations

To donate at a higher level, initiate a bequest, or establish a new endowed fund, contact the Executive Director at mike@aatg.org.