Donor Stories

Cal Poly Humboldt’s Dennis K. Walker Greenhouse boasts one of the largest teaching collections of living plants in California. Now, thanks to a generous gift from the facility’s namesake, Professor Emeritus Dennis K. Walker (‘60, Botany), the iconic campus facility will get an injection of TLC this semester with funding to hire a permanent assistant manager.  

Inspired by their passion for Humboldt, history, and lifelong learning, Jerry and Gisela Rohde have made a transformational gift to the Cal Poly Humboldt Library and its Osher Lifelong Learning

The Humboldt State University Library has  received a generous gift that will support students and their success for years to come. Gus and Corky Nordstrom were longtime supporters of the University

At the start of each semester, students face an intimidating list of price tags including tuition, housing, and groceries or a meal plan. For many, the cost of new textbooks is the last straw. Some

In a year marked by incredible challenges, the Humboldt State University community rallied together to generously support students with scholarships and new opportunities. Over the course of the year

College sports are more than fun and games. To Robin Smith (‘78, Nursing), a former member of HSU’s swim team, training, practicing, playing, and competing are good for the mind, body, and soul. “

Harnessing the momentum of Humboldt State University’s push to become a polytechnic, alumnus and donor Dan Phillips (‘91, Business and Computer Information Systems) has committed $1 million in

On the opposite side of the country, Leah B. Thibault lives in southern Maine with her husband and eight-year-old daughter. As the marketing manager for a community development nonprofit, Thibault’s

She saw friends and family who were changed by the criminal justice system. They entered juvenile detention and left an angrier person.  Inspired by restorative juvenile justice, Destiny Turner

It began with a promise.In 2007, Marguerite Hogan told herself that one day, she would expand a scholarship program that her family had created in memory of her brother Braden (‘05, Wildlife).

As a kid, Aidan Mullin was never into super heroes. His interests lay in the outdoors. He went camping, hiking, and fishing. He also gravitated to science -- dirt and plants in particular.“He was

Since 1960, Humboldt State University has been recognizing the achievements of alumni when HSU launched its annual Who’s Who Award. This year, HSU celebrates its 2021 Distinguished Alumni who have

Humboldt State University’s new assistantship program in the College of Professional Studies (CPS) will award 20 students funding to participate in faculty-led research and professional development

For Connie Stewart (‘88, Speech Communication), the executive director of Initiatives at Humboldt State University, the hands-on learning experiences at HSU helped make her into who she is today: an

From the sides of city buses to book covers to murals, art is everywhere. “Art is about how it makes you feel and art is an important part of life,” says Pattie Atkinson. A professional artist who

Many nurses will tell you that nursing is a calling, describing their role as both advocate and protector, blending art and science in the care they provide.Jack McGurk (‘66, Biology) knows from

Mike Anderson believes strongly in the concept of Uomo Universale, Italian for “Universal Man,” more commonly known as the “Renaissance man,” a well-rounded individual with broad skills and knowledge

Humboldt State alumni Eric Wier (‘78, Natural Resources Planning & Interpretation) and his wife Laura Frank (‘81, Natural Resources Interpretation) had been thinking about giving back to HSU

Local historians Jerry and Gisela Rohde have donated to Humboldt State University in various ways over the years. But recently they discovered a new program to donate to and a whole new way to make

Over the past year, thousands of donors gave more than $6 million in charitable support through the Humboldt State University Foundation and charitable grants in support of HSU students and programs.

July 31, 2020—A $100,000 grant from the Hearst Foundations is helping hundreds of Humboldt State University students meet their basic needs and stay on track to graduate. The grant, awarded to

July 24, 2020—In the past year, donors have given $158,000 in emergency support for hundreds of Humboldt State University students. Gifts raised last year ensure that students can continue on their

July 7, 2020—Thanks to the generosity of donors and the Humboldt Area Foundation, more than $20,000 was raised in support of Humboldt State University California Dream Act students in June. The funds

June 26, 2020—The life-long impact of one HSU alumnus continues through the support of HSU students. HSU alumnus Don Tuttle (‘71, Natural Resources), passed away on May 15, 2020 at age 81.In 2018, he

UPDATE: Thanks to the generosity of donors and the Humboldt Area Foundation, the matching challenge was met, with over $20,000 raised in support of HSU Dreamers over the month of June. For those