As Williston Northampton School continues progress on building a new academic building, the school today announces a gift of $5 million from Board of Trustees Chair John Hazen White Jr. ’76 to help further fund the process. 

White’s extraordinary gift builds on a landmark $10 million gift from Trustee Kevin Hoben ’65 last spring. Together, these two commitments are the cornerstone of funding construction of the historic new academic building, which will open in the spring of 2028. Featuring state-of-the-art classrooms; flexible meeting and collaboration spaces; and an expansive atrium with a sweeping view of Mount Tom, the building will be a vibrant hub for scholarship and community life. 

“We are deeply grateful for John’s legacy of generosity and leadership at Williston,” said Head of School Robert W. Hill III. “A 1976 graduate of Williston Northampton School, John has served as Chair of the Board of Trustees since 2016 and has been a passionate champion of the school’s mission for decades. John was instrumental in supporting the creation of Williston’s Residential Quad, and this gift reinforces his deep personal connection to Williston and commitment to advancing learning for generations to come.” 

Under White’s leadership, Williston has undertaken transformative campus and programmatic initiatives, including major residential and campus improvements, the $87 million Williston Builds campaign, and a comprehensive strategic planning process focused on the school’s people, purpose, and continued vitality. A shining example of his commitment to the student experience is the John Hazen White House, a state-of-the-art residence hall which opened in 2018. 

White is the Executive Chairman of Taco Comfort Solutions and has extensive philanthropic ties to Williston and the surrounding region. He was named a 2023 Manufacturing Champion by the Providence Business News, and in 2025 he received the prestigious Star of Touring Broadway Award from The Broadway League. In June 2026, White was also awarded Williston’s Distinguished Service Award in recognition for his extraordinary and sustained service to the school.  

To stay up-to-date on the latest developments with the new academic building, visit our dedicate web page for the project.