Letter from Mike Connell, WSU Foundation CEO

I recognize that FY25 presented a particularly challenging environment for higher education, let alone for donor and alumni engagement. Key leadership and staffing transitions—as well as economic, federal, and state policy uncertainties; substantial budget considerations; and an ever-evolving collegiate athletics landscape—have all contributed to a perfect storm of crosscurrents influencing how we operate every day. Nevertheless, the individual and collective leadership, advocacy, and investment of WSU’s donors and volunteers alike have been invaluable.

Each investment in WSU—no matter the amount—makes a statement and a real impact on real lives throughout the six campuses of WSU’s system. And while I foresee that many of the headwinds that defined the past 12 months continuing into FY26, that knowledge only strengthens our resolve to be more strategic, more innovative, and more collaborative here at Advancement. I am confident in President Cantwell’s leadership; in our dynamic partnerships across the university and beyond; and in the skills, innovation, and professionalism of our entire Advancement team to further strengthen what is already a remarkable fundraising and donor engagement enterprise that directly benefits the WSU systemwide and the communities we serve.