Media contact:
Sara Anton santon@capecod.edu 508-648-9291
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CAPE COD COMMUNITY COLLEGE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION RECEIVES TRANSFORMATIONAL $20 MILLION BEQUEST FROM MAUREEN WILKENS
Landmark gift will expand opportunity for students and faculty and strengthen Cape Cod’s workforce
West Barnstable, MA (June 4, 2026) — The estate of Maureen Wilkens has made a $20 million bequest to The Cape Cod Community College Educational Foundation, marking the largest gift in the Foundation’s history and doubling its endowment.
The bequest will expand the Foundation’s capacity to invest in students and faculty, strengthen academic and career programs, and support the College’s long-term growth and impact across Cape Cod.
Established in 1983, the CCCC Educational Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the mission of Cape Cod Community College. Through scholarships, essential needs support, immersive learning experiences, and strategic investments in workforce development, the Foundation bridges the gap between what public funding provides and what students need to succeed—both inside and outside the classroom.
This extraordinary gift, made through the Maureen Wilkens Trust, represents a transformative investment in the future of Cape Cod Community College through the work of the Foundation.
Known for her generosity, strong spirit, and deep commitment to Cape Cod, Wilkens passed away on April 6, 2025 at the age of 90. Together with her late husband, Frank Wilkens Jr., she intentionally focused on supporting initiatives that would have a lasting and transformative impact through the Educational Foundation. She was particularly passionate about improving outcomes for single parents by expanding access to education and opportunity, helping families build stronger futures.
“We are truly humbled and profoundly grateful to Maureen and the Wilkens family for this remarkable act of generosity,” said Sara Anton, CEO of the Educational Foundation. “This gift reflects Maureen’s deep belief in the power of a community college education. She was a tireless champion for the students at the College and our community, and this incredible gesture expands what is possible for the Foundation and the College for years to come.”
In accordance with the terms of the trust, this bequest will support a range of priorities aligned with Mrs. Wilkens’ vision for opportunity and community impact, including scholarships, academic and career programs, capital projects, and investments in essential learning resources. The Foundation will steward these funds strategically, directing them to areas of greatest need and highest impact for students, faculty, and the Cape Cod community.
“This is a pivotal moment for Cape Cod Community College and the Educational Foundation,” said Dr. Carlnita Greene, Acting President of Cape Cod Community College. “Through the Foundation, this extraordinary gift will expand access, strengthen our programs, and create new opportunities for students and faculty to succeed. We are deeply grateful for our partnership with the Foundation and for this investment in our students, our programs, and the future of our community.”
“This is a defining moment for the Foundation,” said Susan Miller, Chair of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. “Maureen Wilkens’ generosity will have a lasting impact on this community. The Foundation is honored to steward this gift in a way that reflects her values and creates meaningful opportunity for generations to come.”
About CCCEF
The Cape Cod Community College Educaonal Foundaon is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizaon that advances the mission of Cape Cod Community College through philanthropy, community partnerships, and strategic investment. The Foundaon supports student scholarships, enhances life on campus, strengthens academic and workforce programs, and helps create opportunies that empower students and faculty and enrich the Cape Cod community. Learn more at ccccfoundation.org.