THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

The unprecedented contribution serves as the single largest donation in the school's history—and it could not have come at a better time. The school noted, "During a period of tremendous financial challenges where nearly two-thirds of the Academy's families require tuition assistance, Tranter's gift will make it possible for life-changing scholarships and tuition assistance to be awarded."

"Not only did this school make me the artist and songwriter I am today but it saved my life in more ways than I can count," said Tranter, the former Semi Precious Weapons lead singer who graduated from the academy's Musical Theatre Program in 1998. "Nothing makes me prouder than to be able to support a place that educates brilliant young creatives and more importantly, gives them a foundation of compassion, community and confidence."

Among other things, Tranter founded the school's Annual AIDS Benefit—a student-run variety show with proceeds donated to support AIDS research and families affected by the disease, which recently hosted its 26th annual event last fall. The benefit has raised tens of thousands of dollars for AIDS research, support, care and organizations.

As the executive music producer and songwriter for the Grease prequel series Rise of the Pink Ladies premiering on Paramount + this April, they wrote 30 songs for the first season of the series—the most ever for a single season of television.