Philanthropic Partner Stories
Hear the stories of friends who have made an impact through their acts of giving to Fresno State.
Dr. Carl Pherson
In 1972, Dr. Carl Pherson moved with his family from Minnesota to California to join Fresno State as an assistant professor of Agricultural Economics.
Dennis Morgigno
"This is the story of how I lost my girlfriend," Dennis Morgigno quipped. "I was up at 5 a.m. to work on the Collegian and working till 10 p.m...
Haley Wagner
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Fresno State alumni Haley Wagner and her husband agreed that it would be a good idea to address their...
Chuck Hudelson
In December 2020, Fresno State alumnus Chuck Hudelson was looking to make a donation to the University in honor of his mother, Mildred. He wasn't quite...
Greg and Seta Tcherkoyan
Greg Tcherkoyan grew up in Fresno where he attended Roosevelt High School and Fresno City College with hopes of finishing his degree at Fresno State.
Dario and Celeste Borelli
Alumni Dario Borelli and his wife Celeste (Craven) Borelli credit Fresno State agriculture for their successful careers and have invested in future students.
Ron Samuel
Fresno State alumnus and former Ag One Foundation board member, Ron Samuel grew up and lived in Los Banos, CA. His father worked at Wolfsen Land...
John and Carol Gorter
Fresno State agricultural economics alumni John and Carol Maughn Gorter have found a special way to support a new generation of students by working through the campus Heritage Society to...
Geraldine Tahajian
Geri was known for always carrying a smile on her face, with a true love for many family and friends. She saw the good in everyone with her optimistic and positive outlook on life.
Doris Sullenger
Doris Sullenger cared for others her whole life. One of seven children, and the daughter of Chinese immigrants, she became a caretaker...
Col. Edwin J. Cook
This retired Air Force Colonel attended Fresno State in the 1940s. This remarkable man served in the Army and Navy to finally earn...
Alpheda Knorr
Alpheda "Alphie" Knorr was a surgical nurse in Fresno who never attended Fresno State. No one is even sure if she ever visited the campus.
Pete Beiden
Pete Beiden is a legend in collegiate baseball...
Gary and Marlene Peacock
Peacocks expand their giving with a $7 million planned gift.
Chuck Hudelson
In December 2020, Fresno State alumnus Chuck Hudelson was looking to make a donation to the University in honor of his mother, Mildred.
Ralph Shabazian
When the late Ralph Shabazian learned about the Armenian Studies Program at Fresno State in early 2016, he knew he wanted...
Reed and Julie Rosling
Julie Rosling is a science pioneer who is living beyond her diagnosis.
Marge Winters
Richard and Marge Winters were farmers out in Easton where they grew grapes and almonds. Although they are not from the Central Valley, they have always been passionate about Fresno State and, in particular, the athletics program.
Jim and Louise Dunaway
Jim and Louise, two retired math teachers, chose to give back to their alma maters, supporting students who wish to teach math, just like they did.
