A campaign powered by pride
Fresno State’s philanthropic campaign, “Lead with Pride: The Campaign for Fresno State,” is entering its final year with strong momentum, with more than $271 million donated to date and a growing investment in student success, academics, athletics and research.
During fiscal year 2025-26, alumni, friends and community partners contributed $44.4 million, marking the second-highest fundraising year in university history and an increase from $38.9 million the previous year. The total included $30.6 million for academics and a record $13.8 million for athletics, surpassing the previous athletics record of $10.6 million.
“These investments open doors for students, strengthen our faculty and programs, and deepen Fresno State’s impact across the Valley for generations,” said Brady Crook, vice president for University Advancement.
The year was led by Fresno State’s first eight-figure commitment since 2019, a $10 million bequest from a person who wishes to remain anonymous.
Additional gifts supported the Ana Tapia Scholarship, which provides full tuition and fees for students and is named after a graduate student who passed in a car accident; a $100,000 endowment for the George F. Gruner Awards, recognizing outstanding journalism across the San Joaquin Valley; and a $25,000 pledge for the Gender and Leadership (G.A.L.) Program in the Craig School of Business to support underrepresented individuals in business.
One student who benefited from the G.A.L. program, recent graduate Faith Bither, said, “I’ve learned the value of community, and it’s inspired me to be a better community member.”
As the campaign enters its final stretch toward its June 30, 2027, conclusion, philanthropic support continues to expand opportunities for students and strengthen Fresno State’s impact across the Central Valley.
🤝 To join the and movement and help make Fresno State the third best comprehensive campaign in California State University history, visit leadwithpride.fresnostate.edu.
– BoNhia Lee
A record day of giving
Fresno State’s ninth annual Day of Giving this past spring raised an all-time high of more than $805,000 in just 24 hours — a 31% increase over the previous record. The annual fundraising campaign brought together alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends of the university to support scholarships, internships, research, academic programs and student success initiatives.
Philanthropic partners from 44 states and 13 countries participated, demonstrating the growing reach and impact of the Bulldog community. Since its launch in 2017, Day of Giving has generated more than $4.7 million in support of Fresno State students and programs.
🗓️ Save the date: Fresno State’s next Day of Giving will be March 10, 2027.
– BoNhia Lee
Lasting legacies
Fresno State honors the legacy of two longtime supporters whose generosity and leadership strengthened the university and the Central Valley.
Dr. Arnold Gazarian, a dentist, community leader and philanthropist, championed education, ethical leadership and Fresno State’s connection to the community. He and his wife, Dianne, supported the Smittcamp Alumni House, Fresno State Library, President’s Fund, Arnold and Dianne Gazarian Real Estate Center and Armenian Studies.
Their support established Fresno State’s first endowed professorship, and the couple received the Arthur Safstrom Service Award and Top Dog Alumni Award in 2008. Gazarian died June 16 at age 95.
Dr. Rodger Jensen, a Fresno State alumnus, agricultural leader and decorated World War II Army veteran, helped shape California agriculture while creating opportunities for generations of students.
He helped organize the Ag One Foundation in 1979 and, with his late wife Margaret, established scholarships and endowments supporting agricultural business and plant science students.
The Jensens also received honorary doctorates from Fresno State in recognition of their service and philanthropy. Jensen died Aug. 5 at age 105.
– Jaguar Bennett (’92) and Geoff Thurner
Preparing ag leaders
Three Fresno State students were selected as the inaugural recipients of the John Harris Fellowship, a new program to develop the next generation of agricultural leaders. Established through support from Harris Ranch and the Harris family, the fellowship honors the legacy of the late Dr. John C. Harris, a visionary agricultural leader and longtime supporter of Fresno State. Harris, who passed in 2025, was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2019.
The fellowship provides students with professional development opportunities, mentorship, leadership training and firsthand exposure to agricultural business and management. Fellows also engage with industry leaders and gain insight into the challenges and opportunities shaping California agriculture.
By investing in students’ growth beyond the classroom, the program continues Harris’ lifelong commitment to advancing agriculture and supporting future leaders in the industry.
– Geoff Thurner
