BUFFALO, NY – Building on the momentum of recent years, Canisius University announced today that its comprehensive fundraising initiatives raised $14.3 million from alumni, family and friends during the 2024-25 year, which concluded May 31, 2025. The success of the annual campaign reflects the sustained commitment and support from the university community as the institution advances its strategic priorities.
“This level of support speaks directly to the strength of our Canisius family and their dedication to what the university is working to achieve through its strategic plan, Answer the Call,” says Dianna Civello, vice president for advancement. “Our alumni, donors, families and friends believe in our vision of transforming lives through an exceptional Catholic, Jesuit and urban education. Their investment allows us to strengthen our academic programs, enhance student experiences and expand the impact of a Canisius education in Western New York and beyond.”
The 2024-25 fiscal year drew strong participation from new supporters. The university saw 794 first-time donors who contributed a total of $269,640. This represents expanding engagement and broadening support for the institution’s mission.
The campaign’s success was anchored by the collective support from Leadership Society members, who contributed more than $7.3 million to Canisius. The Leadership Society is comprised of individuals who make gifts of $1,000 or greater to the university. Additional campaign highlights include:
• Athletic Support Grows: Contributions to the Blue & Gold Fund increased this year and totaled more than $555,000. Support for the Blue & Gold Fund provides essential funding for student athletes, including scholarships, recruitment and team travel.
• Giving Day Gains: Canisius Giving Day saw outstanding participation with 1,527 donors making 1,741 gifts, highlighting the strong community spirit surrounding the university’s annual 24-hour fundraising campaign.
• Generosity at All Giving Levels: Gifts ranging from $5-$500 totaled more than $545,000, reflecting the widespread generosity of Canisius donors across all giving levels.
• Student Investment: Canisius University students contributed more than $3,500 to the teams, programs and initiatives that mean the most to them, showcasing their commitment to enhancing the Canisius experience.
Canisius was founded in 1870 in Buffalo, NY, and is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. Consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Northeast, Canisius offers undergraduate, graduate and pre-professional programs distinguished by close student-faculty collaboration, mentoring and an emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership.
