$21.9 million donation from King J. Richter aims to transform university and its students’ futures
Fresno Pacific University has just received the largest donation in its history—a $21.9 million gift from philanthropist and businessman King J. Richter.
The money will fund multiple scholarships that will help students for generations to come, making it one of the most significant acts of giving in the Central Valley.
It’s believed to be the second-largest public charitable donation ever made in the region, second only to a $29.4 million gift to Fresno State in 2009.
The donation will create three endowed scholarships: the Alvina Richter Scholarship Fund, honoring Richter’s mother; the Elmer R. Richter Sr. Scholarship Fund, honoring his father; and the King J. Richter Scholarship. These funds are designed to help students who might not otherwise be able to afford higher education at Fresno Pacific, giving them access to a Christ-centered academic experience.
Richter’s generosity toward the university is nothing new. Back in 1992, he created the King J. Richter Annual Scholarship to support high-achieving students.
Over the years, he has remained a dedicated supporter of FPU and its mission of preparing students to follow their calling while serving their communities.
University President André Stephens said the latest gift will transform the lives of countless students and hopes it will inspire others to support similar educational opportunities.
Richter comes from a family deeply rooted in Fresno’s history.
His grandfather, Jacob Richter, started Richter Bottling Works in 1895, which would later become Fresno’s Pepsi Cola Bottling Company.
Under the leadership of King Richter and his brother Bud, the business dominated the Fresno and Madera County market before being sold to the Liggett Group in 1975.
After moving to Beverly Hills, Richter shifted his focus toward philanthropy, particularly to causes that align with his Christian faith and commitment to education.
This donation will not only benefit current students but also establish a lasting source of funding. For many local families—especially those sending a first-generation college student to school—these scholarships will mean the difference between struggling to pay for tuition and having the support to focus on studies.
Though he’s not someone who seeks the spotlight, Richter’s gift leaves a lasting mark on the university and the Central Valley as a whole.
University leaders believe his act of generosity is more than just a financial contribution; it’s an investment in the future—in education, opportunity, and the next generation of leaders.