The gift was announced by John F. McDonnell, chairman of McDonnell Douglas Corp. and its Foundation, and Washington University Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton. The gift is designated primarily for programs in the university's John M. Olin School of Business and the School of Engineering and Applied Science that will foster new ways to strengthen the educational ties between the company and Washington University.

"Washington University is among the finest universities in our nation, and a major asset to the greater St. Louis area," said John McDonnell. "This gift demonstrates our commitment to higher education at Washington University and to the St. Louis community."

In announcing the gift, John McDonnell noted that the McDonnell Douglas Learning Center in St. Louis will serve The Boeing Company after its merger with McDonnell Douglas August 4.

There are plans to connect Washington University and the Learning Center using new, information technology to enhance the learning experience at both places.

Responding to the announcement of the gift -- the largest ever from the corporation's foundation to Washington University -- Chancellor Wrighton said, "The McDonnell Douglas Corporation and Washington University have a long-standing and mutually rewarding relationship we value most deeply. Many of our business and engineering graduates are McDonnell Douglas employees, and many McDonnell Douglas engineers and executives have continued their education with us.

"Over the years, the company, the Foundation and the McDonnell family have demonstrated generous support for the university. Furthermore, there is a long tradition of McDonnell family members serving as trustees of the university. This bond between us is something that began a long time ago, and will continue into the future," Wrighton added.

According to Wrighton, the $10 million McDonnell Douglas Foundation gift will be used for the creation of a new research center, research fellowships, endowed professorships and new educational programs.