Fueling Dreams, Building Futures: Lock Haven University Foundation Celebrates Another Year of Transformative Giving

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2. Fueling Dreams, Building Futures: Lock Haven University Foundation Celebrates Another Year of Transformative Giving

With enthusiastic support from alumni, friends, and generous donors, the Lock Haven University Foundation (LHUF) is proud to announce that more than $2.8 million in new gifts and pledges were generated during the 2024-25 fiscal year, which concluded on June 30. The fundraising success continues to fuel opportunity and transform students' lives at Commonwealth University (CU)-Lock Haven.

In addition to the new commitments, LHUF provided nearly $1.72 million in direct support to the university this past year-enhancing student scholarships, academic programming, athletics, and a variety of initiatives designed to help students succeed both in and out of the classroom.

"The generosity of our donors sends a resounding message to our students, a message that says, 'You matter. We believe in you. And we are committed to your success," said Dr. Jeffrey L. Osgood, Interim President of Commonwealth University. "In a time when access to education has never been more important-or more challenging-we are inspired by this extraordinary support for the university's mission."

Over the course of the year, LHUF received 5,590 individual gifts from 2,083 donors, including 674 individuals who gave to the LHUF for the very first time. Notably, giving was widespread and inclusive, with nearly 80% of gifts under $100 and more than 92% under $500, underscoring the impact of collective philanthropy.

At the same time, momentum grew among major donors and estate supporters. The Foundation secured $1.2 million in planned gifts-representing 43% of the year's total commitments-ensuring long-term financial stability and future scholarship support for generations of Bald Eagles. LHUF also closed 20 major gifts of $25,000 or more, including support from 10 first-time major donors.

The 2025 fundraising year was also highlighted by the 10th anniversary of LHUF's 24-hour All In Day of Giving, which was held from April 10 to 11. This year's event set new records, raising more than $273,000 from over 1,300 donors-the most ever raised in All In history, and the first time the event surpassed 1,000 donors. The day's energy and enthusiasm served as a vivid example of what the Lock Haven community can accomplish when it unites in support of students.

In total, the Foundation's endowment grew to $18.5 million, and its estate pipeline now exceeds $10.7 million, further cementing LHUF's role as a powerful engine for student empowerment and achievement.

"From our growing endowment and estate pipeline to our record-breaking All In Day of Giving-and every gift in between-our donor community is not just funding scholarships. Together, we're fueling dreams," said Ashley Koser, Executive Director of the Lock Haven University Foundation. "Behind every dollar raised is a student whose future just got a little brighter."

More than 400 students were directly supported through LHUF scholarships during FY'25, with just over $700,000 distributed to help them stay enrolled, reduce financial barriers, and fully engage in their academic experience. Alumni and donor impact also extended beyond financial support.

Through a range of mentoring, career initiatives, and student-alumni events, more than 1,100 students-representing 58% of Lock Haven's full-time student body-were engaged by 204 unique alumni, marking a significant increase from 175 alumni volunteers the previous year.

"As proud Bald Eagles, Lock Haven alumni are not just giving back-they're giving forward," said Ashley Conrad, Director of Alumni and Professional Engagement. "Whether it's volunteering time, opening professional doors, or making a first-time gift, our alumni are showing up in powerful ways to support the next generation of students. Their impact is immeasurable."
One student who proudly experienced this impact firsthand is Alyssa Fohl, a senior communication major from York.

"Receiving scholarship support makes such an incredible difference for my family and I," said Fohl. "It allows me to focus fully on my academics and embrace opportunities that once felt out of reach. I carry my donors' belief in me with gratitude and determination every single day."

"Philanthropy is the cornerstone of opportunity for our students," said CU Vice President for Advancement Erik Evans. We wouldn't be where we are today without the vision and leadership of our dedicated foundation board and staff. Together, we are building a lasting legacy of impact that will carry our students, alumni, and community forward."

Looking ahead, the Foundation remains committed to growing access and equity, increasing student support, and preserving the power of a Lock Haven education for generations to come.

"Every gift matters. Every donor matters. Every student matters," said Dr. Stephen Lee '89, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. "This incredible year of giving once again reminds us that when The Haven Family comes together, there is no limit to what we can achieve."

To learn more about how you can support CU-Lock Haven students through the Lock Haven University Foundation, visit https://www.lhufoundation.org.

Categories:

• Foundation - Lock Haven

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• Philanthropy