Transformational $1 Million Gift Brings the Markovitz Socratic Stage to New College

Dr. Michael C. and Ling Z. Markovitz’s transformative gift deepens New College’s dedication to classical learning, free expression, and rigorous inquiry.

Sarasota, FL —The New College Foundation is honored to announce a landmark $1 million gift from Dr. Michael C. and Ling Z. Markovitz to the New College Foundation, establishing the Markovitz Socratic Stage, a signature program dedicated to revitalizing civil discourse, classical learning, and the free exchange of ideas on campus.

This extraordinary philanthropic investment—made directly to the New College Foundation—will help ensure that the Socratic Stage becomes a central, enduring pillar in the College’s commitment to rigorous inquiry, intellectual freedom, and high-impact liberal arts education.

“We believe deeply in the power of ideas—and the courage it takes to explore them openly. New College is leading a movement to bring back real dialogue, real debate, and real education. We are honored to support this mission and help build a program where students learn to think for themselves, speak with conviction, and engage with the world in meaningful ways,” stated Dr. Michael C. Markovitz.

Rooted in the classical Socratic tradition, the Markovitz Socratic Stage is not a physical stage, but a living forum. It will bring students, faculty, visiting scholars, and public thinkers together for:

• Debates, dialogues, and great-books discussions
• Distinguished speakers and lecture series
• Public forums and intellectual events open to the community
• Student-centered opportunities for discourse and classical inquiry

The program strengthens New College’s Logos/Techne curriculum and elevates the humanities as a cornerstone of the student experience. With the generous support of the Markovitz family, New College is positioned as a bold national leader in restoring substantive, respectful dialogue in higher education.

Richard Corcoran, President of New College of Florida, hailed the gift as a defining moment for the College, “Michael and Ling Markovitz have made a profound and visionary commitment to New College. Their gift strengthens our mission to revive rigorous classical education and restore the humanities as a force for intellectual freedom. The Markovitz Socratic Stage will impact generations of students by giving them a place to think deeply, debate boldly, and seek truth fearlessly.”

For more information on the Markovitz Socratic Stage, please visit www.ncf.edu/socraticstage.

About the New College Foundation

The New College Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, exists to advance the mission, vision, and strategic priorities of New College of Florida. Through philanthropy, stewardship, and community partnerships, the Foundation provides critical support for scholarships, academic programs, capital improvements, student success initiatives, and transformational projects—such as the Markovitz Socratic Stage.

Gifts to the New College Foundation directly impact students by enhancing academic excellence, expanding opportunities for hands-on learning, and strengthening the College’s role as Florida’s public liberal arts honors institution.

About New College of Florida

New College of Florida is the state’s public liberal arts honors college, nationally recognized for its rigorous academics, individualized learning, and innovative educational model. With expanding enrollment, new academic programs, and a renewed commitment to classical learning and free expression, New College is redefining higher education for the next generation.

For more information about the Markovitz Socratic Stage or to support New College through the Foundation, please visit www.ncf.edu/foundation.