FOUNDATION NEWS

Forging Futures: The Campaign for Frostburg State University Concludes, Surpassing Goal and Setting New Records

BY MIA CROSS M'03

Frostburg State University is proud to announce the successful conclusion of Forging Futures: The Campaign for Frostburg State University, a historic, record-breaking fundraising effort that officially ended on Dec. 31, 2025.

“Through the extraordinary generosity of our alumni and friends, Forging Futures has strengthened our ability to expand access, elevate affordable excellence and invest in the success of our students for generations to come,” said FSU’s Interim President Darlene Brannigan Smith, PhD.

Launched in 2016 with an ambitious goal of raising $25 million by 2023, the comprehensive campaign was designed to support annual initiatives, increase the number and amount of scholarships available for students, support classroom and experiential student experiences, create regional partnerships and help fund capital projects. Generous donations to the campaign exceeded expectations – raising more than $36 million, the largest fundraising total in FSU’s history.

“We are extremely grateful to those who helped make this support possible,” said John Short, executive director of the FSU Foundation and vice president of the Division of Advancement and Regional Engagement. “More students have benefitted each year from gifts to the campaign and from growth in FSU’s endowment fund. Even though the official Forging Futures campaign has ended, we remain committed to transforming the lives of our students, the University and the region.”

The FSU Foundation Board of Director’s president Pat Friel '88 echoed those sentiments.

“The amount of money raised during the campaign represents more than just dollars. It reflects new scholarships for deserving students, support for groundbreaking academic programs and increased opportunities for students to grow both inside and outside of the classroom.” Friel continued, “It reflects a community that believes in the power of education and the future of Frostburg State University.”

Campaign leaders and top donors emphasized that the success of Forging Futures was driven by a shared commitment to student success and the long-term future of the University. Donor participation spanned alumni, friends, businesses, faculty, staff and retirees, demonstrating broad support for FSU and its mission to educate, inspire and support one another through education.

 “When I was working my way through FSU and completing my MBA, even a small scholarship would have eased financial stress and allowed me to focus more fully on learning and growth,” said recent grad Nick Trey ‘24/M’25.  “If this campaign helped even one student stay in school, graduate with confidence and pursue their goals, that impact creates a ripple effect that reaches families, businesses and entire communities.”

Trey also wants fellow young alumni to know that they don’t have to wait until they are older or more financially secure to give back. Staying engaged through mentoring, networking or volunteering matters just as much. “Generosity isn’t about the size of the gift; it’s about building the habit of giving. When we stay involved, we strengthen the Frostburg community and open doors for the students who follow us.”

More details about the campaign’s impact, including student testimonials and other funded initiatives will be shared on FSU’s website and social media pages in the coming weeks.

Frostburg State University extends its deepest gratitude to all who invested in Forging Futures and helped shape a stronger future for the University, its students and the region it serves.

“This achievement belongs to everyone who believes in Frostburg State University,” said Short. “Their generosity will have a lasting impact for generations to come.” 🐾