1960 Minutes to Give, Grow and Belong

Join Alumni, Students and Supporters in a 1,960-Minute Campaign to Change Lives Across the Central Valley

By Donna Birch Trahan

Stanislaus State opened its doors in 1960 with a vision: to bring life-changing opportunity to the Central Valley through higher education. More than six decades later, that mission is alive and well, and now, it’s driving a unifying new campaign.

This spring, that legacy enters a new chapter with 1960 Minutes of Giving, the Stan State’s first-ever Day of Giving.

From 8 a.m. April 30 to 4:40 p.m. May 1, alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends are invited to support the scholarships, programs and services that make Stanislaus State thrive, all during a 1,960-minute campaign inspired by the year the University opened its doors.

Anyone can take part, from first-time donors and student clubs to longtime alumni and local supporters. All gifts will support scholarships, academic programs, student success services and campus enhancements. Matching and challenge gifts will help amplify each contribution.

“Why 1,960 minutes? It brings us back to when the University was established and a reminder of why we’re here — our students, our mission and our values,” said Rosalee Rush, interim vice president for University Advancement. “This is our chance to do something different, coming together as a community to rally support for the programs that make Stanislaus State special.

“I think we’re in a critical time in higher ed and the University in terms of investment in our institutions. When you invest in Stan State, you’re not just investing dollar-wise, you’re investing in opportunity and access. Stan State is No. 2 in the nation for social mobility — and this campaign shows exactly what that means.”

Philanthropy has long influenced the University’s story, thanks to supporters like Dieter and Hanna Renning. Dieter, a retired economics professor emeritus, began giving just $10 a month and eventually increased to $50 a month, sustaining that support for more than 15 years. Since 1987, their steady contributions have grown into more than $29,000 in scholarship funds supporting the Renning Economics and Renning Music Scholarships, proof that even modest gifts, given consistently, can create a lasting impact.

The Impact of Collective Giving

This campaign builds on that spirit of generosity, inviting the entire Warrior community to come together in support of student success.

“Collective giving is important because it helps establish a culture of generosity, both internally and externally. It also has the power to double our impact,” Rush said. “That collective effort amplifies our impact. It reinforces just how much this University matters to our students and the communities we serve.”

Support may fund internships, mentoring, research, basic needs support or enhanced learning spaces. Just as important, Rush said, are gifts that create a sense of belonging: “They help us open our doors wider and send a clear message: ‘This is for everyone. You belong here.’”

Join the Movement

Giving is easy and impactful. Donors can:

• Make a gift to the area that matters most. Whether it’s a student organization, an academic department, or a campus initiative, there’s a fund for every passion.

• Promote the campaign using #StanForACause.

• Participate in the Day of Giving Warrior Wednesday celebration on April 30.

“What if you gave just $19.60 a month?” Rush said. “That amount could cover a meal, help with transportation to a job-shadowing opportunity, or make it possible for a student to participate in a campus activity. Whether through a financial gift, donating to the career closet or food pantry, or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps.

“We’re launching something new, and this is the perfect chance to get involved and make a real impact for our Warriors,” Rush said. “Whatever you’re passionate about, you can give in a way that matters—ensuring our students thrive. Stan State is at the heart of the Valley, driving opportunity and success for our region. When we invest in our students, we strengthen our entire community. I hope everyone will join us in this mission and help make this campaign a success.”

This is for everyone. You belong here.

- Rosalee RushInterim Vice President University Advancement