About the Development Office

Millersville University has several distinct giving societies including Fiat Lux, Hobbs-Wickersham, 1855 Society, 'Ville Visionary, Golden Swan and Black & Gold Club. These societies recognize donors whose generosity helps supports student, programs, and the university's future. Each society represents a different level or type of commitment, from annual giving to long-term contributions. Each society is incredibly important because they provide essential funding for scholarships, campus improvements, and academic initiatives that enhance the overall student experience. Together, these societies reflect a strong culture of philanthropy at Millersville University and demonstrate how collective support can make a lasting impact.

• Click here to learn more about each of the giving societies

Endowments at Millersville University offer donors a powerful way to create a lasting legacy that supports students for generations. These funds are invested through the Millersville University Foundation and are designed to live in perpetuity, meaning the principal balance remains intact while only the interest earned is awarded each year. Donors have the opportunity to establish criteria that guide how the funds are distributed, ensuring that their gift supports students who reflect the values, goals, or experiences that matter most to them. Endowments may be named in honor of the donor or in recognition of a person, organization, or influence that has made a meaningful and lasting impact on their life.

Creating an endowment is a long-term investment in student success and institutional strength. The minimum commitment to establish an endowed fund is $25,000, typically fulfilled over a five-year pledge period, most commonly at $5,000 per year. This structured approach allows donors to build a significant fund over time while ensuring that their contribution will continue to benefit students indefinitely. Through an endowed award, donors provide consistent financial support year after year, helping to open doors of opportunity and carry forward a legacy of generosity, purpose, and impact at Millersville University.

• Click here to learn more about endowments and the MU Foundation

Named Annual Awards at Millersville University provide a meaningful way for donors to directly support student success while creating a lasting legacy. These awards are scholarship funds established in honor of a person, organization, or personal inspiration that has had a lasting impact on the donor’s life. Each award carries a specific set of criteria determined by the donor, allowing them to support students who reflect their values, interests, or experiences. Whether recognizing academic achievement, leadership, financial need, or a particular field of study, Named Annual Awards offer a personalized and impactful way to invest in current and future Marauders.

Establishing a Named Annual Award is both accessible and flexible. The minimum commitment required is $2,000, which is typically fulfilled as a pledge over four years, most commonly $500 per year. This approach allows donors to make a significant difference while spreading their contribution over time. Once established, the award is presented annually to students, creating an ongoing source of support that reflects the donor’s intentions and generosity. Through these scholarships, donors not only provide financial assistance but also help shape opportunities and inspire student achievement for years to come.

• Click here for more information about Named Annual Awards

The Development Office actively supports Millersville University student fundraising efforts by providing resources, guidance, and a platform that helps students organizations successfully achieve their philanthropic goals. Our goal is to connect students with alumni networks and the broader community, creating meaningful opportunities for outreach and support. By promoting events and fundraisers, crowdfunding initiatives, and partnership opportunities, Millersville encourages collaboration between students and donors who are invested in the university's mission. This coordinated approach not only empowers student groups to fund projects, programs, and travel experiences, but also strengthens long-term relationships with alumni and community members who play a vital role in sustaining and enriching campus life. Development's resources for students include:

• Fund The 'Ville and Campus Partners (Requires login)
• Hobbs Medallion for Summa Cum Laude
• Senior Class Gift and Philanthropy Cords
• Digital Commencement Messages

Advancement Information Services plays a vital role in maintaining accurate and up-to-date records for students, alumni, and donors by managing a comprehensive and secure database. Advancement Information Services compiles and distributes statistical, demographic, and financial reports to authorized Millersville University departments and individuals, ensuring informed decision-making across the university. Additionally, it supports campus-wide information needed by providing tailored lists, labels, and reports to assist with outreach, fundraising, and engagement efforts. Through these services, the Development Office ensures data integrity while enhancing communication and collaboration throughout the institution. 

• Data Services Request Form and Mission and Ethics Statement (Requires login)