Indiana State University’s Division of University Advancement announced a total fundraising amount of $17,200,296 for fiscal year 2026. These gifts directly support student scholarships, academic programs, experiential learning opportunities, athletics, and long-term strength of the University through its endowment.
Fiscal year 2026 was marked by several significant milestones in philanthropic support. The University celebrated a record-breaking eighth annual Give to Blue Day, raising $2,358,584 in 24 hours marking the most successful Give to Blue Day in Indiana State history to date. The year also included an impactful $1.4 million commitment from Thompson Thrift to support scholarships and summer internships for construction management students over the next 15 years while naming the Thompson Thrift Department of Construction Management in the Bailey College of Engineering and Technology.
These achievements reflect the growing commitment of alumni, friends, corporate partners, and donors to the University’s mission.
“Following the extraordinary success of the Be So BOLD campaign, Indiana State has more momentum than ever before,” said Vice President of University Advancement and CEO of the Indiana State University Foundation Andrea Angel. “This year, a record number of donors gave back to Indiana State, including more than 2,200 Sycamores who made their first-ever gift to the University. As we continue building meaningful relationships with both new and longtime supporters, we are strengthening the foundation for future philanthropy and expanding opportunities that will benefit Sycamore students for generations to come.”
Donor support remains one of the most powerful tools for expanding access to higher education, helping students focus on learning and growing throughout their time on campus.
“Whenever I spend time with our students, I see firsthand the difference that opportunity and the generosity behind it can make,” said Indiana State University President Mike Godard. “Behind so many of their success stories is a donor who believed in their potential and chose to invest in it. Through scholarships, hands-on learning experiences, and support for strong academic programs, our donors help remove barriers and provide students with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Their generosity is not simply an investment in Indiana State; it is an investment in our students, in the communities they will serve, and in the future of our state.”
The University also saw strong support across the Wabash Valley, where 3,194 donors contributed more than $7,485,197 in philanthropic support.
In addition, 29 new endowed funds were established, contributing $4,012,387 to Indiana State’s endowment and helping ensure lasting support for Sycamores and University priorities. This represents a 61 percent increase in new endowed funds compared to the previous fiscal year.
“As an alumnus, I know firsthand the value of an Indiana State education,” said John Crouch, chair of the Indiana State University Foundation Board of Directors and an ’84 graduate of the University. “The growing support we see each year reflects the strong relationships our alumni, friends, faculty, staff, and community members have with Indiana State and their shared commitment to student success. We are grateful for everyone who continues to believe in Indiana State and invest in what comes next.”
To learn more about how you can support Indiana State University and its students, visit indianastate.edu/giving.
Photo below: John and Jennifer Thompson with Indiana State University President Mike Godard when the naming of the Thompson Thrift Department of Construction Management was approved by the Board of Trustees in July 2025.
