CHICAGO, IL.- The School of the Art Institute of Chicago announced a $1 million gift to the school from the Margot and Tom Pritzker Family Foundation intended to enhance the school's ability to recruit students from China. The gift has been designated to support scholarships that will assist students who are committed to the advancement of art and design in China and who intend to pursue their vocations and work in that country after graduation.

Mayor Richard M. Daley announced the gift at a dinner honoring Chinese President Hu Jintao, who was presented with this gesture of friendship on behalf of the people of Chicago.

Announcing the gift, the Mayor said, "Chicago is home to one of our nation's great schools of art and design: the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. It is one of the oldest accredited independent schools of art and design in the United States and attracts students from around the world."

Tom Pritzker, Executive Chairman of the Board of Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Chairman of the Art Institute of Chicago, and his wife Margot are avid supporters of SAIC and have a keen interest in the preservation and advancement of arts and culture in China, interests that combined to inspire this generous gesture.

"Margot and I are very happy to be able to extend this opportunity to the next generation of artists and designers in China, and to be joining with the Mayor to extend our friendship to the people of China on behalf of the City of Chicago," said Pritzker.

SAIC President Walter E. Massey stated, "At SAIC we are committed to an international student body that reflects the diversity that is so important to the quality of education we desire for all our students. This generous gift enhances our ability to provide that education."

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago will award the scholarships to students based on the following criteria: financial need; among the first generation in their family to attend college; prior work or study experience in China; familiarity with Chinese language, culture, or history; and an intention of working in China after graduation.