Slippery Rock University launches $35 million 'Because this is The Rock' campaign

Comprehensive campaign will invest in students, academic excellence, athletics and SRU's future

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa., Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Slippery Rock University has launched a $35 million comprehensive fundraising campaign — its first in more than 30 years — to create new opportunities for students and strengthen the University for generations to come.

The public phase of "Because this is The Rock" began Oct. 23 following a quiet phase that generated nearly $20 million in support during its first two years. The campaign seeks to raise $35 million by the end of 2028.

The campaign is rooted in SRU's strategic plan and focuses on four priorities: academic excellence and innovation, scholarships, athletics and a Presidential Priority Fund. Together, the priorities reflect SRU's commitment to student success while providing resources to respond to opportunities that will shape the University's future.

A campaign built on SRU's foundation

For more than three decades, SRU has grown, adapted and shaped generations of graduates without the benefit of a comprehensive campaign at scale. "Because this is The Rock" represents an opportunity to build on that foundation and translate the University's priorities into lasting benefits for students.

"This campaign marks an exciting new chapter for Slippery Rock University and the impact we can make together," said SRU President Karen Riley. "We are at an inflection point, ready to build on our success and advance lasting excellence. Through this effort, we can further invest in the people, programs and priorities that will shape the future of The Rock and make a difference in the lives of generations of students."

"Slippery Rock University has long been a place where lives are transformed through education, opportunity and community," said Tony Robinson '93, who, along with his wife, Regina '92, are SRU alumni serving as campaign co-chairs. "We are now in an extraordinary position to invest in the future of the University and empower students to achieve their dreams. This campaign is not simply about raising money — it is about creating pathways, removing barriers and ensuring that future students have the resources they need to thrive."

Four priorities for the next generation

The campaign includes four priorities totaling $35 million:

• Academic Excellence and Innovation — $15 million 
• Scholarships — $12 million 
• Athletics — $5 million 
• Presidential Priority Fund — $3 million 

Academic Excellence and Innovation investments will support faculty and student research, academic programs, experiential learning and facilities that give students opportunities to discover, create and lead.

Scholarship support will help address the financial barriers students face in accessing and completing a college education. Approximately 85% of SRU students receive financial aid, and the University distributed more than $10.1 million in scholarships during 2024-25.

Athletics investments will support student-athlete scholarships, facilities, coaching, travel and mentorship across SRU's 19 varsity sports.

The Presidential Priority Fund will provide the flexibility to respond to emerging opportunities, support new ideas and strengthen programs that advance SRU's mission.

Creating opportunities for what comes next

The campaign reflects a belief that some of the most important investments SRU makes today will shape the University and its students for years to come.

"Our mission is to enhance people's lives, and that calls us to think beyond what is possible today," Riley said. "This campaign allows us to invest in the people, ideas and priorities that will strengthen SRU while building on what has always made The Rock a special place."

Riley said the campaign builds on the University's strategic plan, introduced in 2024 to position SRU as a first-choice organization, and the campaign represents the next step in bringing that vision to life.

A shared investment in SRU's future

Troy Miller, SRU vice president for University Advancement, said the campaign builds on the University's strengths while creating an opportunity for alumni and friends to help shape what comes next.

"What has impressed me most about SRU is the depth of commitment people have to this University and to its future," Miller said. "I am deeply grateful to the alumni, friends, faculty, staff, parents and supporters who have invested in this campaign and demonstrated their belief in what SRU can accomplish. Their generosity reflects the spirit of this community — people who care deeply about one another, believe in the transformative power of an SRU education and want to help create opportunities for the next generation of students."

Joshua Young, chair of the SRU council of trustees and a 2004 graduate, said the campaign represents an investment not only in the University but in the students and communities it serves.

"As a graduate, former student trustee and now chair of the council of trustees, I have seen Slippery Rock University from many perspectives, and what has remained constant is the University's commitment to its students and its future," Young said. "This campaign gives us an opportunity to build on that commitment in a meaningful way — to strengthen the programs, opportunities and experiences that make SRU special while preparing the University to serve generations of students who have yet to arrive. This is an investment in SRU, but ultimately it is an investment in people and in what they can accomplish."

How people can get involved

The campaign invites alumni, friends, faculty, staff, students and other members of the SRU community to participate through philanthropy, volunteer leadership, advocacy, mentorship, internships and career opportunities.

Learn more about "Because this is The Rock" on the campaign's website, because.sru.edu, which includes opportunities to make a gift online to help SRU reach its goal of $35 million.

SOURCE Slippery Rock University