Russell‑Cooke advises Cambridge in America (UK) on record £190 million Rokos donation to the University of Cambridge
Russell‑Cooke’s charity law and not-for-profit team, led by partner Chris Rowse, advised Cambridge in America (UK) in connection with the landmark £190 million donation made by investor and philanthropist Chris Rokos to the University of Cambridge.
The gift, comprising an upfront £130 million and a further £60 million to be matched by the University, is believed to be the largest single donation ever made to a British university in modern times.
The transformational donation, which marks a pivotal moment for UK higher education philanthropy, will establish the Rokos School of Government, a new institution designed to prepare future leaders for the increasingly complex demands of domestic and international governance. The School will initially operate from temporary facilities beginning in autumn 2026 before moving to a purpose-built site within the Cambridge West Innovation District, where it will draw on Cambridge’s world‑renowned strengths across science, technology, social sciences, arts and humanities.
We are extremely proud to have supported Cambridge in America (UK) on a project of such scale and national importance. Major philanthropic gifts of this kind have the power to strengthen institutions and create long‑term opportunities for future generations. Working alongside the team has been a privilege, and we are delighted to have played our part in helping this historic donation come to fruition.
The announcement has attracted widespread national media attention, with coverage across the BBC, the Financial Times and The Independent.
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If you would like to speak with a member of the team you can contact our charity law solicitors by telephone on +44 (0)20 3826 7510 or complete our enquiry form.
