The Stockton University Foundation has announced a record-breaking success for its eighth annual Ospreys Give campaign, a 24-hour celebration of giving held on Oct. 8 and 9. The campaign surpassed its goals, demonstrating a powerful outpouring of generosity from the entire Stockton community.
Operating under the theme “One Day, One Stockton,” the campaign united alumni, students, faculty, staff, families, and friends to support critical programs and priorities across the university.
In a record-setting performance for a Stockton giving day, 1,446 donors contributed a total of $608,852, benefiting 140 initiatives. Funds raised will support a wide range of areas, including scholarships, academic programs, athletics, and student support services. Both the total amount raised and the number of donors set new records for the university’s annual giving campaigns.
Momentum for strategic growth
The success of Ospreys Give comes on the heels of President Joe Bertolino’s announcement of a bold new fundraising strategy aimed at doubling annual giving at the institution to expand support for student success and innovation.
“This year’s Ospreys Give demonstrates the power of our community to turn vision into action,” Bertolino said. “As we move forward with our Strategic Plan, this collective generosity underscores the confidence our supporters have in Stockton’s future and the shared commitment to advancing student success and innovation.”
Challenges multiply Impact
The campaign’s momentum was amplified by several matches and challenge gifts. Spencer’s and Spirit Halloween returned as the lead sponsor, providing a significant $250,000 challenge for the third consecutive year. Additional major challenges included a $50,000 gift from Tom Kinsella, director of the South Jersey Culture and History Center, and a $20,000 match from the Gormley and Levine families.
Advocates, including students, alumni, faculty, and staff, volunteered their time to rally support through their networks, inspiring others to donate to the Stockton causes they cared about most.
Dan Nugent, vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the Stockton University Foundation, reflected on the achievement. “The results of our most successful Ospreys Give to date are reflective of the momentum we’re seeing in support for Stockton. The community continues to come together to open doors of opportunity for our students and make a lasting difference.”
