$100 MILLION, ONE MISSION

Southeastern has always been more than just a place of learning. It has been a home, a foundation, and a guiding force for generations of students who have walked its halls, sat in its classrooms, and built lifelong friendships. But what makes Southeastern truly remarkable is not only the education it provides—it’s also the network of alumni, friends, and supporters who have carried its spirit far beyond the borders of campus through gifts of time, talent, and resources. Over the course of decades, the impacts of this giving have borne much fruit—and recently, they have surpassed a goal likely unimaginable by the university’s founders.

One of the first areas of focus of philanthropic efforts in Southeastern’s long history has been that of scholarships. Providing millions in assistance to students who might otherwise struggle to afford a college education has made an impact on thousands of students. Currently, the university has over 570 scholarships funded by alumni and friends.

While Southeastern’s first scholarships originated many decades ago, some more recent donations have set records. In 2008, Joyce Capron Junghans, class of 1944, gave $3.3 million in support of College of Business students. In 2017, the university received the largest single donation in its history—a $10 million bequest from alumnus Seth W. Ryan, dedicated to scholarships for female students.

Beyond scholarships, philanthropic support has played a vital role in shaping campus life. Currently, it helps fund more than 70 professorships to attract and retain top-level faculty, supports facility enhancements and renovations across campus—including the Alumni Visitor Center and Distefano Outdoor Pavilion, President’s Residence, Foundation Center, Chauvin Press Box at Strawberry Stadium, Anzalone Hall, baseball facilities, and Robin Roberts Broadcast Media Center—and provides much-needed assistance to students in
times of great need.

While the impact of Southeastern’s spirit of support is felt across campus, it often shines brightest behind the scenes. Still, one of the most visible and transformative examples was the fundraising drive that brought football back to Southeastern after an 18-year hiatus. In total, $4.2 million was raised to fund equipment, scholarships, and stadium improvements. It’s hard to think of Saturday night in the fall without football, and thanks to the efforts of supporters, we don’t have to.

Currently, philanthropic dollars invested in the Southeastern Foundation provide around $5 million annually to the university. But the true impact of philanthropy isn’t measured in numbers alone. It’s found in the stories of students who were able to stay in school because of a scholarship—and the ripple effects of their impact on others and the world around them because of it.

As Southeastern turns 100, the power of philanthropy has never been more evident. This year, the university reached a landmark moment—surpassing its $100 million goal in the “Get There Together” Centennial fundraising campaign. As the largest philanthropic achievement in Southeastern’s history, this milestone builds on a century of generosity, vision, and belief in the university’s mission. It stands as a powerful testament to the loyalty and commitment of those who have supported Southeastern across generations.

But this moment is more than a celebration—it’s a springboard into the next century. Southeastern isn’t just a place where education happens; it’s a lifelong community, shaped by the dreams, successes, and enduring support of those who have called it home or helped make it one for others. With a long-established tradition of philanthropy, the momentum of this historic campaign, and the continued involvement of alumni and friends, the university’s legacy of opportunity and excellence is poised to thrive for generations to come.

To leave your legacy, contact the Office of University Advancement at [email protected] or 985.549.2239, or visit southeastern.edu/give.