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Ann and Alan Fisher

Opening New Possibilities Through Quantum Science

1 min read

Ann and Alan Fisher on stage with a university leader, holding a gift wrapped in green ribbon

For Ann and Alan Fisher, supporting Illinois Wesleyan means creating opportunities for students to explore what comes next.

Their generous gift established the Fisher Center for Interdisciplinary Quantum Science & Engineering, a first-of-its-kind undergraduate program where students can engage with quantum science across disciplines. Designed to be accessible to students pursuing fields from physics and computer science to chemistry, mathematics and engineering, the Center gives students opportunities for hands-on research and interdisciplinary collaboration early in their undergraduate experience.

The Fishers’ support reflects what has long distinguished an Illinois Wesleyan education: the freedom to cross disciplines, connect ideas and consider not only what new technologies can do, but the impact they can have on the world.

“We are excited to see how this program grows and the impact it will have on Illinois Wesleyan students, the University, and the broader community,” Ann and Alan said.

Their generosity also extends to the Petrick Idea Center, where the Fisher Forum provides a space for students to gather, exchange ideas and turn curiosity into possibility.

  • A large crowd gathered in a campus atrium for the Fisher Center announcement
  • A speaker at the podium during the Fisher Center celebration
  • Ann and Alan Fisher smiling as they are congratulated on stage
  • Ann and Alan Fisher laughing beside an ivy topiary outside a campus building
  • University leaders and donors in hard hats holding gold shovels at a campus groundbreaking
  • Donors and university leaders turning the first shovels of dirt at a campus groundbreaking