Farewell to Our University Advancement VP: Celebrating a Legacy of Lasting Impact

At California State University San Marcos (CSUSM), Jessica Berger has transformed University Advancement. Her leadership is marked by vision and integrity, with a strong belief in how philanthropy can change lives.

In her four years, CSUSM consistently surpassed fundraising goals. The Blue & Silver dinner saw records for single-night donations. CSUSM also broke records on Giving Day, raising significant support for the first new state-funded academic building in over a decade—the Integrated Science & Engineering Building, expected to break ground this summer.

In the 2023-24 year, CSUSM raised over $26 million, more than double the previous record. This included the university’s first eight-figure gifts, totaling $20 million, which showed growing trust between the university and its supporters. This success underlines CSUSM’s dedication to student success.

CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt praised Berger for her exceptional leadership and partnership. Under her guidance, the University Advancement team connected with more alumni and regional leaders, setting the stage for the largest fundraising campaign in CSUSM’s history—a $200 million initiative that’s already 70% toward its goal.

Berger aligned philanthropic efforts with the university’s strategic priorities. Notably, CSUSM topped CollegeNet’s Social Mobility Index in 2022, leading to more scholarships and support for faculty research. This strong support has fostered a shared sense of purpose across the campus.

Berger expressed gratitude for her experiences at CSUSM, crediting President Neufeldt for her professional growth. She emphasized the success of the university is a collective effort, highlighting her team and community partners.

### Recent Insights

Fundraising is increasingly essential for public universities like CSUSM. According to a 2022 National Association of College and University Business Officers study, private donations have become a vital income source for institutions grappling with state budget cuts. This trend highlights why effective leadership in university advancement is crucial.

Experts suggest that strong relationships with donors lead to more significant contributions. As Berger demonstrated, fostering these connections can yield impressive results.

As ongoing social media trends show increased support for education-related causes, the engagement at CSUSM reflects a broader movement in society to invest in student success and educational equity. These shifts in public sentiment may also bolster future fundraising efforts.



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