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Chad Gray ’98 and Rebecca Gray first met while Chad was a student at Whitman. They cherish their memories of their time together in Walla Walla and remain grateful for the opportunities their educations made possible. By establishing the Chad W. and Rebecca L. Gray Endowed Scholarship to support first-generation college students, they are pairing their wish to broaden access to Whitman’s transformative education with their desire to cultivate future generations of critical thinkers and compassionate leaders. Chad and Rebecca are giving back to the community that shaped their early lives so that others have the chance to earn a college degree and follow their own dreams.

Chad arrived at Whitman intending to major in Computer Science but changed course when he discovered his passion for art after taking a couple elective classes with Professor of Art, Emerita, Keiko Hara. When he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art, he entered the Seattle technology scene and put both his interest in computer science and love of art to work. His path forward included a variety of technical and engineering-based positions as well as professional art exhibits and public sculpture commissions.

As a Whitman student, Chad developed a wide range of skills and the confidence to pursue his interests. As a father, he is pleased to show his daughter, Lillian, the value of being curious and trying new things. When Lillian was young, they successfully launched a card game together called Goatfish. Chad developed the mechanics while Lillian created the original artwork for the game. Now, as a high school student, Lillian already has an impressive resume of creativity and a powerful story of transforming ideas into reality.

The Grays currently enjoy living in Boise, Idaho. Through their generous philanthropy, they are excited to reconnect with Whitman and Walla Walla, where they began their journey together.