Utah State University Raises Over $79 Million in Contributions for 2025-2026

Matt White, vice president for advancement and president of the USU Foundation, expressed that the results reflect the deep commitment of the Aggie community. He noted that the collective generosity creates opportunities for students today while solidifying a stronger future for USU.

A major portion of the funds, exceeding $41.8 million, was allocated to “Building a University of Distinction.” This initiative funds resources and spaces that enhance the USU experience, including the newly established Thomas and Patricia Willis Veterinary Medical Education Building. This facility, named following a $5 million donation, serves as the central hub for the College of Veterinary Medicine, featuring advanced classrooms and laboratories designed to facilitate hands-on learning and research.

An additional $25 million was designated to “Accelerate Access and Opportunities” for students. Daria Wightman, a USU alum, established the “daria” Clean Water Scholarship to support civil and environmental engineering students after benefiting from similar scholarships during her studies. Wightman emphasized the impact of giving back, inspired by those who helped her along her educational journey.

Another $7.1 million focused on “Elevating the Educational Experience” through faculty excellence. A significant gift made by Alan and Jeanne Hall through the Hall Foundation will support the Craig D. Jessop Chair for Choral Conducting and Community Engagement, aimed at attracting esteemed faculty in choral music.

Research initiatives also benefited from $5.4 million in donations aimed at “Developing Solutions to the World’s Challenges.” Chevron has partnered with USU, contributing to the Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water, & Air, which investigates vital issues affecting Utah's natural resources.

This fundraising year saw the creation of 64 new endowed scholarships, benefitting over 2,500 students and distributing more than $6.1 million. Justin and Leslie Haskell established the Justin & Leslie Haskell Family SEED Endowment to enable students to participate in the Small Enterprise Education and Development program, helping them gain practical experience in developing communities.

Scholarships play a pivotal role in enhancing access to education. Secondary education major Elizabeth Leishman expressed how the Lonnie & Cheryl Smith Scholarship allowed her to focus on student teaching by alleviating financial burdens.

In total, nearly 900 faculty and staff contributed approximately $630,000, and alumni donations accounted for $34.7 million through over 4,500 gifts. Notable alumni such as Scott and Mindy Pratt have also contributed to scholarships and internships, assisting students in making valuable industry connections.

Donations originated from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as 28 counties across Utah. Cache County contributed the most, with $16 million from around 3,000 donors. Out-of-state contributions were led by Kansas and Montana, with $6.6 million and $6 million, respectively.

USU President Brad L. Mortensen highlighted the critical role of philanthropy in creating opportunities for students and strengthening the university's impact on communities across Utah. For more information on supporting USU, visit usu.edu/advancement.