Wightman Bell

Why Wightman?

Named in memory of John T. Wightman, Class of 1914, and in honor of the John T. Wightman Foundation (the pre-cursor to the Yellow Jacket Club) and the 19 alumni who founded the organization in 1971, creating a legacy of philanthropic support for the intercollegiate athletic programs at Randolph-Macon.

Why a Bell?

Historically, every time an RMC team was victorious, a student was sent to Old Chapel to toll the chapel bell. John T. Wightman documented this tradition in his poem titled Chapel Bells. A copy of Wightman’s poem can be found on display in the Doggett Carillon of Brock Commons.

How to give:

• If you have already made a financial gift to the Yellow Jacket Club or the College in any capacity this fiscal year (July 1st – June 30th) you have been counted.
• You can click the “Make Your Wightman Gift Now” button located above and donate using a credit/debit card.
• You can Venmo your gift to @JacketsGiveBack – Please include your Name, Class Year, and the Sport you play in the Comment Section
• If a student does not have a credit/debit card or a Venmo account, they may turn in their gift in person at the Yellow Jacket Club office, located in the College Advancement House at 304 N. Center Street, Ashland, VA 23005.

Competition timeline

• The Wightman Bell Competition is held every Spring towards the end of April/beginning of May.
• The 2026 competition will run from April 19th through April 25th. 
• Tie Breaker: in the event of a tie, the team having the highest median per capita gift shall win the award.
• Special thanks to YJC member Mr. Robert V. Doggett ’57 for his passion and support of the Wightman Bell.

2026 Wightman Bell Results

Competition Highlights

• The total giving percentage this year was 71.46%, an increase of 14% compared to last year’s competition.
• 9 teams hit 100% giving compared to 7 last year.
• Every team hit at least 15% giving compared to several teams with no giving last year. 

Winners

• Small roster division – Women’s Golf with a median gift amount of $20.00.
• Large roster division – Women’s Swimming with a median gift amount of $2.50