Founders Society
Wheaton's first Founder's Day was on September 27, 1889 when the college celebrated one of Wheaton's founders and first benefactor, Eliza Baylies Chapin Wheaton, on her 80th birthday by suspending classes for the day. Teachers and students presented 80 roses to her at an evening fete. This tradition continued after Mrs. Wheaton passed away, with students placing roses under her portrait.
On Founder's Day each year, we honor Mrs. Wheaton's legacy and celebrate all Founders Society members for their legacy commitment to the college.
Eliza Baylies Chapin Wheaton gave the statue and fountain of Hebe to the Wheaton Seminary for its fiftieth anniversary in 1884. Today, Hebe has become the centerpiece for many campus traditions. Hebe, the "cupbearer to the gods" of the ancient Greek religions, also stands for the spirit of Wheaton: to be of service. Founders Society members exemplify that same spirit of service by making a planned or legacy gift to Wheaton, thereby helping keep Wheaton strong and vibrant for generations to come.
By telling the college that you have Wheaton in your will or estate plan, or by establishing a life-income gift with the college, you help ensure that Eliza Baylies Wheaton's vision endures. We are honored to welcome new members of Founders Society, no matter the size of the gift.
