Finishing Strong

As we approach the conclusion of Forging Futures: The Campaign for Frostburg State University, I’m proud to share that thanks to the generosity and commitment of many donors, we raised just over $4.9 million in the last fiscal year. This represents the second-highest annual total in University history and brings our three-year fundraising average to nearly $5 million per year, roughly two and a half times our average from a decade ago. With this year’s success, we’ve now exceeded $33 million raised through the campaign. This is a truly remarkable achievement, and we still have a few more months to increase this total.

As I’ve mentioned previously, these numbers represent more than just dollars. They reflect new scholarships for deserving students, support for groundbreaking academic programs and increased opportunities for students to grow both inside and outside the classroom. They reflect a community that believes in the power of education and in the future of Frostburg State University.  

Please remember - engagement matters. Not only because alumni gifts help sustain our mission, but because alumni participation is a powerful indicator of institutional health. Colleges and universities across the country are increasingly measured by the enthusiasm and involvement of their graduates. When we show up -- whether through giving, mentoring, attending events or simply sharing our Frostburg story -- it sends a message that our University matters and that it continues to shape lives for the better.

FSU has approximately 48,000 alumni. Over the entire campaign, 13.3% (about 6,400 individuals) of alumni have contributed. The percentage has declined each year, in part due to new graduates joining our alumni ranks. This past year saw the lowest number of alumni donors - just over 3% (about 1,350 individuals) - since the campaign began. We are not unique in this regard. Most colleges and universities are impacted by similar trends. However, we are going to work very hard to increase alumni engagement, and we want you to join us.

The good news is that engagement can take many forms. You can participate in Homecoming this fall and reconnect with classmates and faculty. You can speak to students in the classroom about your career journey. You can attend a regional alumni event or mentor a student interested in your career field. You can wear your Frostburg gear proudly and talk to your neighbors and colleagues about what your experience meant to you.

Every gesture of involvement helps strengthen the bond between alumni and the University and inspires today’s students by showing them that the Frostburg community is active, diverse and invested in their success.

As we bring the Forging Futures campaign to a close in December, I invite you to reflect on what Frostburg has meant to you and how you might give back in a way that feels personal and impactful. Let’s move the needle together, not just in dollars raised, but in people engaged.

Thank you for all you’ve done, and all you continue to do to help shape the future of Frostburg State University.

Warm regards,

Pat Friel ‘88

President, Frostburg State University Foundation Board

The Annual Fund

Support for the Annual Fund helps to sustain the unique opportunities and enduring excellence that are part of an FSU education.

Increasing Enrollment

Enrollment, important to the financial foundation of the University, will be aided by the scholarships and grants Frostburg State University needs to place the opportunity for higher education within reach of all.

Student Success

Supporting initiatives for student success will help enhance opportunities for the learning experiences and future success of our students across more than 100 areas of study.

Student Experience

Supporting the student experience will help provide resources that lead to opportunities for student growth, such as professional development, internships, research, study abroad and athletics.

Regional Outreach

Support for regional outreach ensures that FSU can continue to create partnerships within the region to drive economic and educational development.

Capital Needs

Support for capital needs funds projects that continue to improve our campus and enhance our students’ lives, such as a multicultural center, collaborative classrooms and athletics facilities.