In the 65-plus year history of Penn State Berks, private philanthropy has played a crucial role in not only securing the present campus location, but in helping to expand both the physical plant and academic programs into what we have today -- a sprawling 260 acre campus serving a diverse student population of almost 3,000 students. We have come a long way in our half-century of existence! But not without the help of many generous donors and faithful volunteers through the years.
The University just completed a 7-year campaign which raised more than $2 billion. At its heart, that effort, was a campaign that was directed at Penn State students with the primary goal of increasing scholarship support to keep a Penn State education affordable for all families. I've said this many times before, but it bears repeating that everything we do, we ultimately do for our students and for their success. It's also true of the many talented people who work here at this institution. Our central mission remains, and always will be, our students.
Many of you have played an essential role in the campus' growth and have a stake in its future. I hope you will consider some of the many ways to partner together with us. No matter what size gift you make and no matter if it is directed toward scholarships, athletics, academic program support, or the annual fund, your gift has a direct and immediate impact on the lives of our students, faculty, and staff.
Please accept my personal thanks for your generosity and dedication in helping Penn State Berks become one of the finest institutions of higher learning in the country. We are always looking to involve even more individuals in helping to lead the way, as so many have done in our history. I hope you will consider investing in the future of our campus and our students. To learn more about how you can help continue our tradition of excellence, please contact me at 610-396-6006 or via e-mail at mmb250@psu.edu.
Warm regards,
Melissa Edwards
Director of Development & Alumni Relations