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Epstein Family Foundation's Generous Donation to USD

The University of San Diego (USD) is celebrating a significant milestone in its commitment to support military-connected students, as the Epstein Family Foundation has generously pledged a matching gift of $10 million. This initiative is part of a larger plan to raise a total of $20 million over the next five years aimed at enhancing resources and opportunities for over 900 military-connected students at USD, which includes active-duty service members, veterans, and those from military families.

Purpose of the Donation

The donation will facilitate the establishment of the Epstein Family Foundation Military-Connected Center for Excellence (MCCE), focusing on various crucial areas:

• - Community Building: Creating more dedicated space for military-connected students to connect and thrive.
• - Scholarships: Providing essential financial support through scholarships specifically for military-connected students.
• - Dedicated Staff: Hiring specialized staff to offer academic and mental health counseling, career services, and assistance for a smoother transition to civilian life.
• - Tailored Programs: Organizing events and programs geared towards military-related issues to foster awareness and education within the broader student body.
• - Community Engagement: Strengthening the connection between MCCE and the military community in San Diego, ensuring a robust support system.

A Message of Inclusion

Nelson Chase, Director of USD's Military and Veterans Program, expressed his hope that this gift exemplifies the university's commitment to its military-connected students. He emphasized USD's vision not just to be veteran friendly but truly inclusive, showcasing an investment in their academic, professional, and personal success.

A Call to Action

Dan Epstein, a U.S. Army veteran himself, conveyed his pride in supporting the initiative which ensures that those dedicated to service and leadership have access to essential resources. He urges the community to join in this noble endeavor, highlighting the transformative potential this support can have for current and future generations of students.

To further bolster the initiative, the Epsteins encourage USD to match their $10 million donation through annual fundraising efforts, aiming for at least $2 million in contributions each year over the next five years. This collaborative approach is designed to inspire community involvement and ensure sustainable support for military-connected students at USD.

Conclusion

The Epstein Family Foundation’s commitment marks a remarkable step toward fostering an inclusive environment for military-connected students at the University of San Diego. By bridging gaps through financial support and by creating dedicated resources, their efforts are bound to leave a lasting impact, enabling these students to pursue their academic and professional aspirations successfully.

Everyone can contribute to this mission, and community support will play a crucial role in making a meaningful difference in the lives of these deserving individuals. For those interested in participating in this noble cause, USD has established means for donations to help meet this aspirational challenge.

Media Contact

For further inquiries, please reach out to Steven Covella at the University of San Diego.