Penn College concludes record-breaking fundraising campaign

The Legacy Campaign for Penn College – a collective commitment to the future from alumni, corporate partners, employees, parents and friends – generated a record-shattering $37.2 million between fiscal years 2018-22 to boost student success at Pennsylvania College of Technology.

For more than 100 years, Penn College has empowered students to earn an applied technology education – one that leads to success as essential employees in the global marketplace.

Thanks to the overwhelming response to the campaign’s call to action, a new generation of tomorrow makers with real-world experience will fill industry demand to grow a highly skilled workforce.

The Legacy Campaign centered on three impactful areas of giving to support the college’s mission: $17.4 million was raised for scholarships, $4.9 million for academics and affinity, and $14.9 million for equipment and facilities.

In May 2021, upon announcing her intention to retire in June 2022 after 24 years as Penn College’s leader, President Davie Jane Gilmour launched the public phase of the campaign efforts, inviting “all hands in” to empower students.

“The Legacy Campaign created a launch pad for opportunity, building upon our institution’s rich history, expanding minds and horizons,” said Loni N. Kline, vice president for college relations/chief philanthropy officer. “Witnessing all hands come together to honor President Gilmour’s transformational leadership was inspiring. We are so thankful for the passionate individuals and corporate partners whose investments are truly transforming tomorrow."

Providing students with opportunities to succeed was always a primary focus for Gilmour, so it came as no surprise that she was the first to add her financial commitment to campaign efforts – so that more students could explore new cultures and perspectives and showcase the skills and problem-solving abilities they developed at Penn College.

“The day I became president, I made the statement, ‘People make the difference,’ and that has followed me along the last 24 years and remains true today,” Gilmour said. “Our students are inspiring, and our alumni are incredibly talented individuals running businesses and organizations, making a difference in our communities.

“It is my hope that my legacy will reflect the boundless opportunity a Penn College education represents for students. I thank all campaign contributors for their belief in our mission and for helping us set the stage for the future of Penn College.”

Penn College experienced dynamic growth under Gilmour’s leadership. The year she became president, the Penn College Foundation had total assets of $1.8 million. Today, assets top $27 million, and scholarship awards are budgeted for $1.35 million.

Her successor, President Michael J. Reed, praised Gilmour’s legacy.

“What President Gilmour has accomplished throughout her tenure is nothing short of extraordinary, and I am grateful for all campaign commitments that will empower our collective expertise and maximize opportunities that prepare our students to enter and advance within high-demand career fields,” Reed said.

For more about giving opportunities at Penn College, call 570-320-8020.

Penn College is a national leader in applied technology education. For more, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.