Central Michigan University donors forge another record year of impact

A year of record fundraising at Central Michigan University has generated nearly $83 million for programs, real-world learning, scholarships and facilities that prepare students to excel professionally and personally.

“This is a historic moment for Central Michigan University,” President Neil MacKinnon said. “Through their extraordinary generosity, our alumni, friends and partners are creating generations of impact by fueling the education, experiences and connections that set CMU students apart.” 

Total donor gifts to CMU and its students over the past three years have approached $190 million, shattering previous records. They support students across campus, in each of the university’s seven colleges and those involved in CMU athletic programs.

“Our donors know a CMU education changes lives and creates a ripple effect of positive impact across Michigan and beyond,” said Jennifer Cotter, vice president for Advancement. “Students are our most important stakeholders, and every philanthropic investment made this year creates opportunities for students to learn, lead, discover and succeed.”

Advancing CMU's impact in healthcare

Several gifts enhance CMU healthcare programs, including $40 million from MyMichigan Health for the MyMichigan Health CMU Medical Education Building in Saginaw. This facility will unite all four years of physician education in one hub. Donors have generously provided nearly $89 million so far through CMU’s Advancing Health Together initiative.

Future physicians in the Covenant HealthCare College of Medicine at Central Michigan University also will have access to a new $1 million scholarship created by alumni Tim, ’74, and Nan Buerger, ’75, Maczka. It will support students who come from and are committed to delivering care in central and northern Michigan. Tim Maczka co-founded Team Financial Group in Grand Rapids; Nan worked in interior and landscape design and in art production and retail.

Student majors in multiple health professions fields will benefit from gifts of $115,000 — a Towsley Foundation grant and a contribution from alumni Gary, '66, '70, and Barbara, '66, '70, Russell. This support expands learning through Mobile Health Central, a mobile medical unit that engages students in delivering care in Michigan’s most vulnerable, underserved communities.

The Michigan-based Towsley Foundation is funding school and sports physicals, immunizations and basic health screenings in rural communities. The Russells, a former teacher and school librarian, are supporting these hands-on CMU student experiences.

Campuswide, a $650,000 gift from Bob Oros, ’90, and his wife, Lisa, is expanding CMU’s hallmark culture of student care and support. They are funding a program that helps students acquire the tools and mindset to make wellness the foundation for college, their careers and their lives. Oros is the retired chairman and CEO of Hightower Advisors in Chicago.

“Achieving a record-breaking fundraising year is not simply a financial milestone, it's about the lives that are changed,” Cotter said. “Together, donors are strengthening programs, opening doors and empowering the next generation of leaders.”

Building CMU's leadership in Mid-American Conference athletics

CMU Athletics donors over the past five years have contributed $26.1 million through the Maroon & Gold BOLD initiative, exceeding an initial $25 million goal. Their gifts support the experience and well-being of more than 400 student-athletes.

One recent donation will build confidence and resilience in female student-athletes through an EmpowerHER Leadership program. The $350,000 grant is from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation, founded by Renee LaBelle Parsons, ’91, and her husband, Bob. Renee serves on the board of directors of PXG, a golf equipment and apparel company, and leads hospitality and design at Scottsdale National Golf Club. 

Expanding excellence across CMU colleges 

From academic program enhancements and scholarships to funding of pivotal, hands-on learning, donors are supporting efforts in each CMU academic college.

Business students, for example, will benefit from a $1 million gift from Cam Davis, ’74, a Los Angeles financial advisor, entrepreneur and lawyer, who has created a leadership scholarship program for transformational experiences. Davis wants to give students access to real-world opportunities like he had. He served on the Student Senate, created a political science club, studied abroad and had a conversation with then–Vice President Gerald Ford while attending a conference in Washington D.C.

Serving individuals and families

CMU’s Student Food Pantry, part of the Mary Ellen Brandell Volunteer Center, received $222,000 from donors over the year, while students volunteered more than 1,800 hours. One in three CMU students experiences food insecurity and relies on the pantry to sustain them on their educational journey.

Donors also contributed a record $4.5 million to WCMU Public Media, ensuring its time-honored programming and informational resources remain available to residents and families.

“This record philanthropy is a testament to the extraordinary generosity of our donors and unwavering commitment of our alumni, friends, and corporate and foundation supporters,” Cotter said. “To every donor who has partnered with us, thank you. Your generosity is forging a lasting impact today and for generations to come.”

Learn about ways to support CMU students.

Read more about CMU’s incredible donors, their gifts and their impact.

Three years of fundraising records