The generosity of Fresno State alumni, friends and community partners during fiscal year 2025-26 propelled the university to the second best fundraising year in university history, totaling $44.35 million in charitable giving.
The successful fundraising year was fueled by gifts of all sizes – from transformational commitments to everyday acts of generosity. The year was led by a $10 million anonymous bequest, the university’s first eight-figure commitment since 2019, while thousands of other philanthropic investments advanced scholarships, academics, athletics and student success.
Collectively, Fresno State supporters invested $30.5 million in academics and $13.8 million in athletics, surpassing last year’s athletics record of $10.6 million. In 2024-25, Fresno State raised a total of $38.85 million.
“This remarkable year is not simply a reflection of dollars raised – it is a reflection of the growing belief our alumni, philanthropic partners and community have in Fresno State and in the life-changing work happening across this university every day,” said Brady Crook, vice president for University Advancement at Fresno State. “These investments open doors for students, strengthens our faculty and programs, and deepens Fresno State’s impact across the Valley for generations. We are incredibly grateful to every philanthropic partner who helped make this year possible.”
The year included the strongest Day of Giving ever, raising $805,297 in 24 hours on March 18 from thousands of philanthropic partners worldwide to help fuel innovation and empower students for success. That’s a 32% increase compared to last year and a 72% increase since fiscal year 2023-24.
Philanthropic investments also created meaningful opportunities for individual students. A $25,000 pledge from Wendy Jackson supported the Gender and Leadership (G.A.L.) Program in the Craig School of Business, which prepares students to navigate the challenges associated with being underrepresented in business leadership positions. One student who benefited from the program, recent graduate Faith Bither, said, “I’ve learned the value of community, and it’s inspired me to be a better community member.”
Fresno State announced on Oct. 20, 2025 the launch of its philanthropic, comprehensive campaign, “Lead with Pride: The Campaign for Fresno State,” a people-powered movement aimed at transforming lives through education, discovery and community partnership. The campaign celebrates the collective pride and generosity that have long defined the Central Valley. For more information about the campaign, visit leadwithpride.fresnostate.edu.
