Letter from Mike Connell, WSU Foundation CEO

By the numbers, FY26 ranks as WSU’s second-best fundraising year. What makes it remarkable is not simply the total raised, but also the strength of the partnerships behind it. Over 80% of our campuses, colleges, and units exceeded their aggressive fundraising goals, reflecting solid broad-based support throughout the fiscal year while demonstrating the strength of our programs and confidence of donors. That momentum was reflected not only in fundraising success, but also in the long-term strength of the institution and our trajectory. Our endowment also had a successful year and reached a record year-end value of $922.4 million, distributing over $29.4 million to hundreds of students and programs.

FY26 reminded us that when challenges arise, the Cougar community meets them, together. The resilience and shared commitment of our alumni, friends, volunteers, faculty, staff, and students kept us focused on WSU’s mission to create opportunities, advance discoveries, and strengthen communities across Washington and beyond.

I am pleased to share this report and the highlights of an extraordinary year for WSU, made possible by the generosity, collaboration, and advocacy of the Cougar community. Thank you for your steadfast support and shared commitment to creating opportunities, transforming lives, and advancing WSU’s mission across Washington and beyond.