Stanislaus State is celebrating its legacy and investing in its future with a bold new tradition: the University’s inaugural day of giving.
The campaign, 1960 Minutes of Giving, will run for exactly 1,960 minutes — from 8 a.m. Wednesday, April 30, through 4:40 p.m. Thursday, May 1 — a timeframe chosen to honor the year Stan State opened in 1960. In just over 32 hours, the Warrior community will unite to rally support for Stan State student clubs and organizations, academic programs, athletic teams and everything that defines Stan State.
“When you give to Stan State, you’re investing in futures — not just for students, but for the communities they go on to serve,” said Interim Vice President for University Advancement Rosalee Rush.
That idea is at the heart of the 1960 Minutes of Giving. The campaign’s name isn’t just a countdown — it’s a reflection of Stan State’s journey since 1960 as a hub of learning, growth and opportunity in the Central Valley. Each minute of the campaign reflects not just where we’ve been but where we are headed.
“It’s about making every minute count and creating momentum for the next 60 years.”
Celebration with Purpose
While the online campaign welcomes support from Warriors and friends of the University from everywhere, the heart of 1960 Minutes of Giving will be felt at both the Turlock and Stockton campuses through a series of events and activities that celebrate giving, connection and community pride:
- 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – University Quad
- Kickoff activities hosted by the Division of University Advancement (UA), Associated Students, Inc. (ASI), and the Student Center (SC)
- Live tabling with iPad kiosks to donate
- A thank you board where students and donors can share notes of appreciation
- Donation drives for the Warrior Food Pantry (nonperishable food) and Warrior Wardrobe Career Closet (professional clothing)
- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Shield Lane (near the Student Center)
- Wetzel’s Pretzel Food Truck — 10% of all proceeds go to ASI and SC-designated 1960 Minutes funds
- 3 to 6 p.m. – Front of Acacia Hall
- ASI and SC activities and food for students
- 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Student Center Lobby
- ASI and SC host Titus Thursday events with food and giveaways
- 2 to 6:30 p.m. – Warrior Activities Center
- Thursdays Are ‘WAC,’ a student life event series hosted at the WAC that will include food, music and more
- 4 to 5 p.m. – Warrior Steps
- Closing celebration with sweet treats, good vibes and gratitude
- A final chance to give, gather and share appreciation on the thank you board
“Whether it’s scholarships, social entrepreneur programs like the Fab Lab or pathways to careers, this Day of Giving is about extending our reach beyond campus,” Rush said.
The University encourages supporters to become challenge donors by offering matching gifts or creating participation-based challenges to increase momentum. Campaign organizers say the challenges are an impactful way to celebrate something meaningful — an academic department, a mentor, a family legacy — while motivating broader engagement.
“Whether you’re a student, graduate, faculty or friend of the University, this is your moment to encourage others to get involved,” Rush said. “Let’s come together, show our Warrior pride and make history — one minute, one gift, one student at a time.”