Shenandoah University is on an exciting journey with its new fundraising campaign, aiming to gather $100 million. This effort will boost arts, upgrade sports facilities, and create new teaching positions and courses.
This campaign, named “Shine: The Sesquicentennial Campaign,” is the largest in the university’s 150-year history. The private phase kicked off in July 2022 and has already collected over $85 million. The public phase started on September 13, 2025, during the “Our Legacy, Our Future 150th Celebration Gala.”
SU President Tracy Fitzsimmons expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating, “Our supporters have been really incredible. They’re eager to show what’s happening at Shenandoah.”
The campaign is set to conclude on June 30, 2027. A highlight so far is a $20 million donation from alumnus Wilbur Dove and his wife, Clare, which will contribute to the new $65 million Concert Hall & Center for the Arts. This facility will enhance programs in dance, music, and theater, along with introducing a visual arts major. Groundbreaking for the arts center is anticipated by late 2026.
Fitzsimmons noted the center will not only train art therapists and educators but also cater to students interested in digital arts and marketing.
Plans are also underway to expand the athletic facilities. This includes adding locker rooms for new sports teams and a weight room at the James R. Wilkins Jr. Athletics and Events Center. While costs haven’t been estimated yet, construction might begin in late 2026 or early 2027.
The campaign also aims to fund new academic programs like a bachelor’s degree in engineering and master’s degrees in fields such as speech-language pathology, nutrition, and mental health counseling. Funding will also support paid internships, student engagement activities, and scholarships to keep education affordable.
Donors are stepping up, with plans to support new chaired positions and advancements in the cybersecurity and augmented reality labs at the university’s Hub for Innovators, Veterans, and Entrepreneurs (HIVE).
In a world where education is often financially challenging, this campaign reflects a hopeful trend in university support. As Fitzsimmons puts it, “There is so much good happening here. It’s a great day to be a Hornet.”
For more details on Shenandoah University’s initiatives, visit their official site.
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fundraising, higher education, philanthropy, Shenandoah University, Tracy Fitzsimmons, Winchester
