Lock Haven University Foundation Raises Over $3.82 Million to Empower Student Success

With overwhelming support from alumni, friends, and key stakeholders, the Lock Haven University Foundation (LHUF) is excited to announce more than $3.82 million in new donor-designated gifts and pledges to empower Commonwealth University (CU)-Lock Haven students were secured during the 2023-24 fiscal year that concluded on June 30. This was the third-largest giving year in LHUF history. 

Additionally, LHUF provided more than $1.84 million in support back to the university directly supporting student scholarships, and other academic and athletic areas of need.

Out of the $3.82 million raised by LHUF, nearly one-third was in the form of planned gifts, ensuring the long-term strength of the university. Remarkably, 81% of gifts received this year were less than $100, and 94% were under $500, highlighting how every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference for students, faculty, and the entire CU-Lock Haven community.

“The incredible generosity we've seen from The Haven family, at time when students have more need than ever before, is nothing short of extraordinary," said Commonwealth University President Bashar W. Hanna. "We are deeply thankful for each and every donor. Their support continues to enhance our students' lives every single day."

"From the rebranding of our annual fund to The Haven Fund at the start of last fiscal year to our record-breaking All In Day of Giving that generated more than $259,000, and many other impactful gifts throughout the year, none of these celebratory milestones are possible without thousands of proud Bald Eagles who selflessly commit their support to increase student success at The Haven,” said LHUF Executive Director Ashley Koser. “To each and every one of our 2,125 supporters, including the 622 new donors who made their first gift ever to the LHUF this year, I wish to express my deepest appreciation for being the driving force behind so many successful student journeys."

The funds raised support a variety of initiatives, including, but not limited to:

• Estate Gifts: More than $1.23 million in future gifts received ensuring long-term sustainable student scholarship support
• Student Impact Programs: Professional Experience Grants (PEGs) that enhance research opportunities and experiential learning programs, and emergency scholarship aid that bridges the gap to meet an array of unique student needs.

“We are immensely grateful to our Foundation for driving such a successful year,” said Erik Evans, Commonwealth University Vice President for Advancement. “The dedication and generosity of our supporters have been truly inspiring. As we continue to navigate the complexities of integration and adapt to the changing educational landscape, their contributions are what empower our students and advance our mission."

Increased alumni engagement has also played an instrumental role in this successful year, with 178 new alumni volunteers leaving their mark on students through an array of student-alumni engagement initiatives executed by Lock Haven’s Center for Career and Professional Development. 

“The financial support alumni provide our students is crucial. Equally as important are the many ways in which alumni are professionally developing students through mentorship, virtual and in-person conferences, providing employment and internship opportunities, and more,” said CU-Lock Haven’s Director of Alumni and Professional Engagement, Ashley Conrad. "CU’s vast network of more than 145,000 alumni, including more than 38,000 Lock Haven alumni, is a lifeline for our students, and we cannot thank them enough for the countless ways they are stepping up to make a difference in students’ lives.”

Melanie Jorge of Warminster, Pa., an English major with a focus on technical writing who recently completed her sophomore year at The Haven, is one of more than 400 students who felt the firsthand impact of donor support during the 2023-’24 academic year.

"The impact the scholarships I’ve received have had on my life is immeasurable, as they have not only opened doors, but have ignited a fire within me to strive for excellence,” said Jorge. "These scholarships have granted me the freedom to wholeheartedly dedicate myself to my studies and seize opportunities that might have otherwise been out of my reach.”

"My donors' investment in me has not gone unnoticed," she added. "I pledge to always work hard, and make the most of the opportunities they have provided me."

"This phenomenal year of giving is a testament to the transformative power of higher-education philanthropy," said Vice President for Enrollment Management and Students Affairs, Dr. Stephen Lee ’89. “This life-changing support not only inspires students; it helps keep a word-class, life-changing Commonwealth University - Lock Haven education more affordable and accessible for them.