Sacramento State is not standing still — we are leading.
From launching first-in-the-nation colleges and groundbreaking academic programs, to expanding digital innovation and workforce-aligned pathways, Sacramento State is redefining what it means to be a comprehensive public university in California’s capital.
And we are just getting started.
The University Foundation at Sacramento State exists to ensure that this momentum continues — and that students have the resources they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
The Sac State Greatest Needs Fund is one of the most important ways we do that.
Why Flexible Support Matters Now
Sacramento State is navigating in an environment of shifting state and federal funding priorities. At the same time, enrollment is growing, student needs are increasing, and expectations for innovation have never been higher.
Sacramento State is choosing to lead forward and through philanthropic partnership, we are able to be proactive.
Flexible support allows us to:
Safeguard student achievement so financial setbacks or unexpected challenges don’t stand in the way of their education and future goals.
Support students’ health and wellbeing by maintaining programs that provide food security, mental health care, academic support, and a strong sense of belonging.
Strengthen the learning experience by protecting course access, hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and research opportunities that help students grow into confident leaders.
Expand Sacramento State’s impact by investing in innovative programs that serve our region, create opportunity, and strengthen our role as California’s capital university.
The Greatest Needs Fund ensures that Sacramento State’s progress is not dictated by external funding cycles. Instead, it allows us to move with intention — sustaining momentum, protecting excellence, and continuing to lead in higher education.
With your support, we will continue to lead, to innovate, and to expand opportunity for generations of Hornets to come.
The University Foundation at Sacramento State promotes philanthropy to provide a level of excellence at the University beyond what is possible through state funds. The board of directors of The University Foundation accomplish this goal by helping to raise private resources that advance the mission and priorities of the University and serving as ambassadors for philanthropy in the University community.
Sacramento State transforms lives by preparing all students to lead, serve, and succeed. We are committed to our designations as a Hispanic Serving Institution, an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution, and a Black Serving Institution, and to intentionally serving students reflective of these designations and all students who have been historically underserved in education.
The priorities of today may not be the priorities of tomorrow. As needs evolve, this fund allows Sacramento State to respond with agility and intention. Your support helps advance initiatives such as:
• Expanding financial assistance, opening doors for students whose talent and determination outpace their financial resources
• Providing paid internships and hands-on learning opportunities, so students can gain meaningful experience while supporting themselves
• Covering essential academic expenses, including textbooks, course materials, technology, transportation, and emergency grants that keep students on track
• Strengthening food security, housing support, and crisis assistance, ensuring students have stability in and out of the classroom
• Supporting undergraduate and graduate research, connecting students with faculty mentors and real-world discovery
• Investing in experiential learning and leadership development, including study abroad, community-based projects, competitions, and innovative academic programs
• Fostering belonging and engagement, strengthening programs that build connection, confidence, and community
• Advancing strategic initiatives and new opportunities, allowing Sacramento State to continue leading with bold, first-of-their-kind programs that serve our region
All University programs and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, Sacramento State provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. 
Sacramento State complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU’s Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all University programs, policies, and practices.
Sacramento State is a diverse community of individuals who represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities, committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment. We cultivate a culture of open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. Through academic programs, student organizations and activities, faculty initiatives, and community partnerships, we encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. As a higher education institution, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge and empowering individuals to reach their full potential by prioritizing inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and comprehensive support programs. At Sacramento State, excellence is built on merit, talent, diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all.
Organization name
University Foundation at Sacramento State
1962
Mission Category
Education
Operating Budget
$5,000,001-$10 million
Organization Need
Funding: Program
Demographics Served
General population
Local Counties Served
El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, Yolo
Address
6000 J St.Sacramento County, CA, US
Placer County, CA, US
Yolo County, CA, US
El Dorado County, CA, US