SJSU’s 1857 Minutes of Giving Raises $3.6 Million During Two-Day Campaign

Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Spartan community, SJSU’s 1857 Minutes of Giving campaign raised a record-breaking $3.6 million over two days between March 11 and March 12.  More than 1,825 gifts were made to over 100 fundraising initiatives to support student scholarships, departments and programs from across the campus, including a two million dollar gift. In 2024, San José State was the first among all California State University campuses to raise over $1 million during a Day of Giving.

“To our community of Spartans, friends, and neighbors: Your generosity has propelled us to a milestone we’ve never reached before — a true first for SJSU,” says SJSU President Cynthia Teniente-Matson. “It’s a testament to your belief in the power of education and the spirit of giving that defines our community. This achievement not only reinforces our legacy as a place of firsts but also drives us forward as the Epicenter of the Future, where bold ideas and boundless opportunities take shape.”

[embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lox5ExbG4_Y ]

 The number 1857 is a nod to the year San José State, then called Minns’ Evening Normal School, was officially established — the first public university on the West Coast.

“Creating a culture of philanthropy has increased access to programs that support our students, enhanced campus resources, and fueled innovation at SJSU. I’m grateful to our 1,543 donors for making every minute count and coming together for a stronger San José State,” says Judy Nagai, vice president of University Advancement and CEO of the Tower Foundation Judy Nagai.

Learn additional ways to contribute to SJSU.