WhatsApp Co-Founder Jan Koum's $36M Donation Opens New Los Angeles School Campus

A $36 million contribution from WhatsApp co-founder Jan Koum has enabled Milken Community School in Los Angeles to open a new high school campus, expanding its total footprint to 28 acres across three locations.

According to reports published by the Jewish Journal, the newly designated Jan Koum Campus is located at 15600 Mulholland Drive in Bel Air, on property previously owned by the American Jewish University. The site is situated about half a mile from the school's existing Ruby Family Campus and Saperstein Campus.

Expansion and Fundraising Details

• Donation Source: The Koum Family Foundation committed $36 million to support the expansion.
• Name Change: The property, formerly referred to as the Milken East Campus following its acquisition by school co-founder Lowell Milken, was renamed in June 2026 after the foundation's contribution was announced.
• Capital Campaign: School officials reported that the gift brought total funds raised through Milken's capital campaign to a record $152 million.
• Capacity and Demand: Head of School Sarah Shulkind stated that application numbers for the year rose 40% compared to the previous record, prompting the institution to expand space for its student body of over 800 enrolled across grades 6 through 12.

Opening Event and Community Remarks

Families, students, donors, and community leaders gathered to mark the opening of the upper school facilities for grades 9 through 12. Israeli singer Ishay Ribo performed at the event, alongside student performances including the US national anthem, "Hatikvah," and choral arrangements.

During the ceremony, Lowell Milken addressed challenges facing Jewish students and educators, highlighting reported rises in antisemitism and threats to community safety. He emphasized the institution's goal to serve as a supportive environment for Jewish continuity and education.

Practical Implications and Verification

Observers interested in verifying the details of the expansion can consult official announcements released by Milken Community School or coverage provided by the Jewish Journal. The initiative reflects ongoing philanthropic investments in educational infrastructure, though prospective families should consult the school's direct admissions channels for current enrollment guidelines.