SAN DIEGO, May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Longtime supporters of the University of San Diego (USD), Dan and Phyllis Epstein, through the Epstein Family Foundation, have committed a transformative $10 million matching gift for a total of $20 million in five years to expand support for USD's military-connected students. USD has more than 900 military-connected students, including active-duty service members, veterans, and students who come from military families.This gift will provide funding for a number of resources and services, including:More space: Establish the Epstein Family Foundation Military-Connected Center for Excellence (MCCE)Establish the Epstein Family Foundation Military-Connected Center for Excellence (MCCE) Scholarships : Provide scholarship support for military-connected students: Provide scholarship support for military-connected students Dedicated staff : Academic, mental health and career counseling, and assistance to transition to civilian life: Academic, mental health and career counseling, and assistance to transition to civilian life Specialized programming : Events and resources geared toward military-connected students that expose the broader student body to military-related issues: Events and resources geared toward military-connected students that expose the broader student body to military-related issues Community resources: Connecting MCCE with the military population in San Diego"I hope this gift shows USD's military-connected students how much we want them here," said Nelson Chase, Director of USD's Military and Veterans Program. "That we're not just veteran friendly, but we're veteran inclusive, and we're invested in their academic, professional and personal success."Dan Epstein is a U.S. Army veteran and has supported USD's military-connected students through the recent Epstein Challenge that raised $1.9 million in scholarships ."Our family is honored to support this important initiative, ensuring that military-connected students have the resources they need and deserve," said Dan Epstein. "We invite the community to join us in this effort to create pathways of opportunity for those dedicated to lives of service and leadership. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for students today and for future generations."The Epsteins' gift is a call to action, focused on inspiring generosity for USD to match their $10 million gift by raising at least $2 million each year for the next five years

After two decades at off-campus venues, Stockton University’s premier fundraising event is coming home in 2025.The Stockton University Foundation Scholarship Benefit Gala will be held at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, April 26, in the heart of the Galloway campus at the university’s Campus Center — bringing a new level of excitement and impact.“This is more than a gala, it’s a homecoming,” said President Joe Bertolino. “Returning to campus is a powerful way to honor Stockton’s history, invest in the next generation of students and highlight the beauty and spirit of our university.”Since its inception, the Benefit Gala has raised more than $5 million to support scholarships for Stockton students. The Benefit Gala Endowed Scholarship Fund provides essential financial support for Stockton students, ensuring that future generations have access to a transformative education.“The Foundation Board of Directors decided to bring the gala back to campus as a meaningful way to reconnect with our roots and enhance the impact we can through scholarships,” said Gayle Gross, chair of Special Events. “It’s a reflection of the Board’s commitment to supporting the university’s mission and creating opportunities for deserving students.”Guests will enjoy a top-shelf cocktail reception, featuring carving stations, a raw bar, a pasta station and decadent desserts. Between dancing and dining, guests can capture memories at a photo booth, take a chance on the 50/50 raffle and enjoy interactive experiences with faculty and staff.Guests will engage with student- and faculty-led activities from each academic school, including:Beat the Polygraph Challenge with the School of Social and Behavioral SciencesOsprey Trivia Challenge with the School of EducationChampagne Tasting with Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management studentsEntertainment features dueling piano performances by Shake Rattle & Roll, DJ Ahmed Kahn ’84 keeping the dance floor alive, and student performances by Stockapella and the Stockton String Ensemble.An art gallery featuring the works of students and alumni.“Year after year, we see how the Stockton community comes together at the Benefit Gala to change students’ lives through scholarships,” said Ken Calemmo, chief operating officer of Cooper Levenson Attorneys at Law. “We are honored to be a part of this meaningful tradition and continue investing in Stockton’s future.”Top sponsors include International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 351, the Stockton University Foundation Board of Directors, Cooper Levenson Attorneys at Law, Dr