Building Humboldt’s Future: A Year of Giving and Innovation
With extraordinary donor support and robust research funding, Cal Poly Humboldt is redefining the future for students and faculty alike
At Cal Poly Humboldt, giving isn’t just about dollars—it’s about transforming lives. Over the past fiscal year, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and community members stepped up to fuel opportunities, spark innovation, and ensure that students thrive.
“The generosity and commitment of our donors play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Humboldt. “Their unwavering support empowers our students to thrive today, while laying a strong foundation for tomorrow. Today’s students benefit directly from a donor community that has consistently invested in opportunities for future generations.” Steve Karp, acting vice president of University Advancement and executive director of the Cal Poly Humboldt Foundation.
2024-25 in Numbers
$13.4M
Total Raised
11,400+
Total Gifts
5,100
Total Donors (2% increase)
580
Recurring Donors
$47.1M
Total Endowment
$1.9M
Distributed for Scholarships and Programs (the largest ever)
923
Donor-Funded Scholarships Awarded
(up from 307 in 2015)
Totaling Nearly
$1.3M
302
Grant Proposals
Requesting
$128M
199
Grants Received
Totaling
$58.7M
Giving Day: A 24-Hour Tradition
In April, Humboldt celebrated its third annual Giving Day, a tradition that unites the Humboldt community in a single day of generosity.
The results were extraordinary
$303,390
Raised in 24 Hours
1,172
Donors
121
Programs and Scholarships Received Funding
78
Campus Groups Participated
$125,000
In Matching Gifts
Student Support That Changes Lives
Donor support has had a profound impact on the lives of students at Cal Poly Humboldt. The Humboldt First Initiative has empowered 350 local students to pursue higher education, breaking barriers and opening doors to their dreams. Through the Student Success Scholarship Fund, over $15,000 has been raised to support those in need when other financial aid options are unavailable. More than $25,000 in Student Emergency Grants has been distributed, providing critical support during times of crisis. The $368,000 in unrestricted funds has allowed Humboldt to address urgent needs quickly.
Innovation and Research on the Rise
On the research front, grant funding played a pivotal role in fostering innovation. The University submitted 302 new proposals, seeking an impressive $128 M in funding, and successfully secured 199 new awards that amounted to a total of $58.7 M. Looking ahead, StartUp Humboldt, a joint venture of university-affiliated and non-university-affiliated partners, has launched to support local entrepreneurs and innovators, with an exciting $200,000 competition planned for the coming year.
Donor Spotlights
Alongside these funds that sustain students in critical ways, individual and corporate donors are making gifts that advance innovation and excellence. These stories illustrate how philanthropy, whether large or small, is transforming the student experience. Gifts include:
- NVIDIA’s Academic Hardware Grant Program made a significant impact on research capacity at Humboldt by providing nine DGX1 supercomputers, each valued at $25,000. These advanced tools are already transforming research across various fields, including artificial intelligence, biology, and climate science.
- David Tyler (‘83, English and Philosophy) has demonstrated exceptional philanthropy through his steadfast commitment to giving. Since 2007, he has supported an array of programs, from the Department of Philosophy to the Toyon magazine and student arts experiences. His remarkable 18-year record of consistent giving highlights the true power of sustained support, emphasizing that philanthropy is as much about passion and dedication as it is about financial contributions.
- Jack and Charlene Liebau have honored the legacy of education by establishing the Marie Jacobs Liebau Endowed Scholarship for Teaching. This scholarship pays tribute to Jack’s mother, Marie Jacobs (‘29, Education). Their generous gift ensures that future generations of teachers will receive the support they need, much like Marie did in her time.
From scholarships that open doors, to emergency funds that provide stability, to cutting-edge gifts that expand research capacity—every act of giving makes Humboldt stronger.
Give online to an area on campus you care about the most at giving.humboldt.edu! Whatever you choose to give, your gift empowers and transforms the lives of Cal Poly Humboldt students.