The University of San Diego got a $75 million boost Saturday from philanthropist Darlene Marcos Shiley for STEM projects. It is the largest pledge received in the history of the university

San Diego philanthropist Darlene Marcos Shiley pledged $75 million to help the University of San Diego continue to build its growing STEM programs. Why it matters: It's the largest-ever gift to USD, and one of the largest given to any Catholic university nationwide,

Two universities have received their largest gifts ever. The U. of San Diego received a $75 million pledge & the U. of Rhode Island was given a $65 million estate gift.

It's the largest gift in university history and the largest ever given to any Catholic university in the country, according to USD officials.