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About

Letter from Vice President for University Advancement

Mario Perez

Welcome

For over 60 years, SSU has been shaping thoughtful leaders through a transformative public liberal arts and sciences education. The Sonoma State experience is characterized by dynamic faculty-student interaction, a focus on collaboration and innovation, and the opportunity to make a real impact. Join us in celebrating our students and creating opportunities for future students at Sonoma State University.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of our values, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. This commitment has resulted in closing the equity gap among our students. Your continued support will enable our university to continue delivering a quality education that makes a difference in the lives of our students and our communities. Your involvement as alumni, friends, parents, students, employers, corporations, foundations, faculty, or staff is crucial to our success.

University Advancement is leading the charge to engage the North Bay community in impactful ways. Your contributions, whether through time, internships, employment opportunities, or philanthropic gifts, are essential in fueling the success of Seawolves. Together, we can shape the future of our beloved institution.

Let's work together to propel Sonoma State further, now and into the future.

Best Wishes,

Mario A. Perez, Ed.D.
Vice President for University Advancement

Purpose Statement

Donor with hand on students shoulder

University Advancement is the driving force to create lasting partnerships with alumni and community to ensure sustainable philanthropic support and partnerships that enhances the university.

 

Meet Our Departments

Learn more about our team. 

Advancement Operations

 

Planner, coffee mug and laptop

The Advancement Operations team manages the business operations for the division. The team manages the overall finances, administration, and operational functions and is also responsible for database management, reporting, the stewardship of gift and records, in-depth prospect research, and the seamless processing of gifts. 

Alumni & University Engagement

Students holding up glasses of champagne to Toast at Toast of Town event

The Alumni & University Engagement team serves as the bridge that connects the vibrant Sonoma State University campus with our expansive network of over 74,000 alumni. In collaboration with the University Advancement division, the Alumni & University Engagement department provides opportunities to strengthen the unique bond with campus. Engagement activities, events, marketing and communications are provided to ensure a lifelong connection to Sonoma State. We invite you to visit Sonoma State often to reminisce about your time and experience the growth and vibrancy of the campus.

Development

 

Donors and staff talking

The Development team is dedicated to matching donors' passions with meaningful opportunities for support at Sonoma State University. Whether investing in student programs, championing academic excellence, advancing cutting-edge research or enhancing community initiatives, we understand that gifts of every size carry a profound impact on our mission to educate and empower students for success.