On October 10th, McDaniel College hosted its annual Founders Society Gala. During the event, the college announced its new campaign, Reaching New Heights, which has already raised over $40 million in gifts and pledges, including a historic $15 million estate gift from the late Jonas Eshelman ’50—the largest gift in the college’s history.
Reaching New Heights is set to transform the student’s experience, strengthen academic excellence, and deepen the college’s connection to the broader community.
“This campaign is not just about resources,” said President Julia Jasken. “It’s about opportunity. It’s about the community. And it’s about ensuring that every student who steps onto this campus is empowered to reach their full potential.”
The campaign will fund renovations to residence halls, upgrades to athletic facilities, expanded academic programs, scholarships, and emergency funds to ensure access and equity for all students.
It also celebrates spaces of identity and legacy, such as the renovated Black Student Union Clubroom, which honors the history and future of Black students at McDaniel.
Academic innovation is at the heart of the campaign. With donor support, McDaniel’s new nursing program blends liberal arts with clinical practice, preparing students to lead from day one. The Learning Commons brings together tutors, accessibility services, and success coaches in a centralized hub, ensuring every student has the tools to thrive.
The evening’s celebration included heartfelt remarks from student Nicki James ’26, who shared how a scholarship changed her life.
“Philanthropy makes higher education possible,” she said. “It helps students like me become smarter, stronger, and more skilled.”
The campaign has already inspired extraordinary generosity, including a leadership gift from Greg Kahlert, president of the Kahlert Foundation, which is funding the construction of new nursing classrooms and faculty offices.