There are 18,803 individual stories all wrapped up in this single tale—18,803 different narratives of student success empowered by scholarships from San Diego State University.
Donors who funded scholarships during
The Campaign for SDSU listened to some of these stories on Tuesday, Feb. 28, at the annual Scholarship Luncheon. They heard from
Zackary Albrecht,
Ana Morino and
Charmagne Jones.
SDSU awarded 18,803 scholarships during the 10 years of The Campaign for SDSU. In total, the campaign has raised $180 million for scholarships, including $86 million for endowed scholarships. These latter gifts have created funds that are invested and will continue to grow. The interest from endowed funds supports annual scholarship awards.
“We are honored and grateful for the support of our donors,” said
Eric Rivera, vice president for Student Affairs. “Through their generosity, students are afforded the opportunity to pursue academic excellence; opportunities that otherwise would not have been possible.”
"It brings us joy"
Scholarships support hundreds of student activities, including academic endeavors, research, leadership and entrepreneurship initiatives, the creative arts, athletics, clubs and organizations, study abroad and internships.
Speaking to donors at the luncheon, SDSU President
Elliot Hirshman thanked the audience and quoted donor
Susan Salka, who received scholarship support when she was a student at SDSU. Salka has expressed appreciation for “the generosity of donors who did not know me but put their money on the line to give me opportunities.” Hirshman and his wife,
Jeri, are among SDSU’s scholarship donors.
Long-time donors
Sheila and
Jeff Lipinsky also addressed the luncheon audience, explaining that they support scholarships “because we’re continuing a family legacy and because it brings us joy.”