Saint Francis University Marks Three $1 Million Commitments
Saint Francis University is celebrating three extraordinary $1 million philanthropic commitments that collectively signal strong confidence in the University’s mission, leadership, and long-term direction. These landmark investments are advancing student access and affordability, strengthening campus life, and supporting the future of SFU Athletics during a defining moment in the University’s history.
The commitments come as Saint Francis University continues to move forward following its March 2025 decision to reclassify its athletics program from NCAA Division I to Division III. Grounded in Catholic and Franciscan values, the transition reflects a renewed emphasis on student well-being, balance, and holistic development. In the months surrounding and following this announcement, alumni and friends of the University have stepped forward with remarkable generosity—affirming their belief in the University’s vision and sustainability. This momentum is further reflected in the University’s most recent Giving Tuesday campaign, which recorded the highest total raised in the initiative’s history, highlighting broad engagement and support from the Saint Francis community.
“At a pivotal moment in our history, these commitments affirm the strength of our decisions and the clarity of our vision,” said University President Fr. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D. “They signal strong support for the path we are charting for Saint Francis University.”
Investing in Access and Affordability
One of the $1 million commitments was made by an anonymous alumna with a deep commitment to student access and affordability. The gift directly supported members of the Class of 2029, helping to reduce the cost of their first semester at SFU. Through this generosity, 200 incoming first-year students received a $5,000 credit toward their fall tuition. The University expressed profound gratitude for the donor’s belief in the transformative power of education and her desire to support students at the very beginning of their Saint Francis journey.
Enhancing the Residential Experience
A second $1 million commitment—an unrestricted gift from an alumnus given in gratitude for his Saint Francis University education—will support a phased residence hall upgrade plan. This investment will enhance on-campus living spaces and improve the residential experience for students for years to come, reinforcing the University’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and supportive campus environment.
Supporting the Future of SFU Athletics
The third $1 million commitment supports the development of a new on-campus baseball complex, a key component of Saint Francis University’s evolving Division III athletics program. As part of its transition, SFU has joined the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) and is working toward the launch of Red Flash baseball, with the goal of fielding a roster within the next two to three years.
Notably, the commitment was made by an alumnus who was not a student-athlete, reflecting confidence in the University’s broader mission and institutional direction beyond athletics alone.
The proposed site for the baseball complex has a long history of supporting youth and amateur athletics. Saint Francis University is working closely with the Loretto Allegheny Munster Athletic Association (LAMAA), which has used and maintained the fields for decades, to ensure continued community access. LAMAA has expressed strong support for the project and for the continued growth of SFU Athletics.
“This project reflects a shared commitment to opportunity, teamwork, and community,” said a representative from LAMAA.
Moving Forward with Purpose
Together, these three $1 million commitments represent a powerful affirmation of Saint Francis University’s momentum—strengthening access and affordability, investing in campus infrastructure, and reinforcing a student-centered approach to higher education rooted in mission and values.
“With a renewed focus on balance, belonging, and mission, Saint Francis University is moving forward with purpose,” Fr. Van Tassell said. “These commitments help ensure we continue to deliver an experience that transforms lives.”
To learn more about Saint Francis University’s institutional priorities and strategic direction, visit francis.edu.