$10-Million Endowment Gift Received

Photo by Thalía Romero

Vice Regent Emerita for Wyoming Adrienne Mars and her husband John have pledged $10 million to enhance Mount Vernon’s general operating endowment as part of Strengthening Our Foundations: The Campaign for Mount Vernon.

This generous commitment is one of the major leadership gifts to the campaign, which will not only strengthen Mount Vernon’s financial foundations but also provide support for vital education and preservation initiatives.

Enhancements to the endowment are part of nearly every project within the campaign, which also includes an effort to augment the endowment by increasing the number of named, endowed leadership positions at Mount Vernon. Positions in departments across the estate, as well as in institution-wide leadership ranks, are available to be endowed.

In recognition of their significant gift, the position of President & CEO will be named to honor John and Adrienne Mars.
“This gift is an extraordinary vote of confidence in the future of Mount Vernon,” said Campaign Co-chair and Vice Regent for Illinois Catherine Marlette Waddell. “Adrienne and John have been such wonderful supporters of the estate, and this gift is just the latest example.”

Fellow Co-chair and Vice Regent for Massachusetts Andrea Notman Sahin added, “We cannot think of a better name to have associated with Mount Vernon leadership, given Adrienne’s many years of service to the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association.”

“I am deeply honored by this demonstration of support for Mount Vernon and humbled to hold the role of President & CEO at the time this generous gift was committed,” remarked Doug Bradburn, who is poised to be the inaugural John and Adrienne Mars President & CEO.

The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the importance of a strong endowment. Like other unexpected social, economic, and environmental factors, the pandemic impacted attendance to Mount Vernon, which provides needed revenue to keep the estate running. When visitation slowed in 2020, Mount Vernon depended on its operating endowment to generate funds to continue education and preservation efforts.

“A robust endowment is critical to protect the institution in times of challenge,” said Adrienne Mars. “I truly hope our commitment will inspire others to contribute to this important aspect of the campaign.”

John and Adrienne Mars currently serve as members of the Washington Cabinet, a visionary group of philanthropists and leaders who are advocates and ambassadors for Mount Vernon. Adrienne Mars served as the Vice Regent for Wyoming from 2003 to 2012. John Mars is the retired chair, president, and CEO of Mars, Inc., representing the third generation to lead this privately held global brand.

With this gift, three positions at Mount Vernon now enjoy endowed support. Such security ensures these roles are protected in times of crisis, while demonstrating a recognition of the professionalism of the staff and serving as an effective recruiting tool for future candidates.

Endowment giving is permanent support. The principal amount of the contribution is invested and remains intact while the income generated annually is used to support the mission. This provides a steady source of funding for Mount Vernon’s education and preservation mission.

“Mount Vernon is expected to be a resource forever to educate all generations about our nation’s history,” added Adrienne Mars. “Augmenting the endowment will ensure it is supported in perpetuity.”