Nicole Bigley
Chapman University is celebrating a historic year of giving, made possible by its generous community. Alumni, parents, and friends gave at levels that surpassed any previous year in the university’s history, raising $72.4 million, a 38% increase over last year.
The milestone is notable not just for its scale but also for its timing. In a year when the university celebrated the inauguration of President Matt Parlow and is reaching the final stretch of an extraordinary campaign, the community signaled its confidence in vision and trajectory through generosity and investment in Chapman’s future. While some universities might experience a stasis of giving at the end of a campaign or early in a college presidency, the Chapman community reaffirmed its support.
That confidence was on display at February’s State of the University, where several major gifts were announced — including $25.5 million from Christine Cross and $10 million from Jad and Amy Duncan — and it carried throughout the year.
“This milestone is a powerful testament to the extraordinary commitment to Chapman’s future,” said Jessica Berger, Executive Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer. “It is a direct reflection of our community’s belief in our mission and confidence in President Matt Parlow’s vision for the university.”
Nearly 80% of what was raised went toward endowed funds. Unlike one-time gifts, endowed funds are invested permanently, generating returns that support scholarships, programs, and research year after year.
“Jessica Berger is leading the close of the Inspire campaign in a way that defies the typical trajectory,” said President Parlow. “Her ability to build genuine relationships with our alumni, parents, and friends in a short time is remarkable, and this record is a direct reflection of her effort and sincerity.”
Alumni participation grew significantly, and parent and friend support remained a strong and steady force. The students who will benefit from this year’s generosity include many who have not yet set foot on campus.
Parlow sees the record as part of a longer arc. “When we lean into who we are and what makes Chapman special, our community responds. That is what this record represents, and it is a continuation of the excellence we have been building together for a long time.”
