CSM Raises More Than $321K for Student Success During Giving Tuesday

The Southern Maryland community stepped up in a major way to support the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Foundation raising a college record of $321,400 for college programs and scholarships.  

In honor of Giving Tuesday on December 2, the CSM Foundation hosted a 24-hour online giving event, which featured Power Hours and prizes for donors, early giving efforts, Give Back Challenges, and donation matches. The Foundation is grateful to receive gifts from 274 participating donors, and nearly doubling the funds raised in 2024.  

“The generosity shown this Giving Tuesday is a powerful example of how the CSM community continues to step up for our students,” said CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson. “This tremendous support shows that our community stands behind CSM and its students, believes in their potential, and is committed to investing in their success.”

Giving Tuesday is an international movement held annually the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. It follows Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, refocusing the holiday season from getting to giving.  

Funds raised during the Giving Tuesday campaign are often made to the unrestricted Hawk Fund, allowing the college to respond to the most critical student needs, including tuition assistance, educational supplies, and support for the Hawk Pantry. Many additional donations are designated to specific CSM programs, departments, and scholarships.

The CSM Foundation awards an average of 800 scholarships annually. Executive Director Susan Mudd Vogel said every dollar, and every scholarship awarded, helps a student move forward with their academic dreams.  

“We are grateful for the participation and support we received for our Giving Tuesday campaign. Every gift brings a student closer to their academic goals,” said CSM Foundation Executive Director Susan Mudd Vogel. “These contributions will help empower the future professionals who will one day strengthen our workforce and community.” 

This year’s effort surpassed the generosity demonstrated during Giving Tuesday 2024, when more than $184,000 was raised for student success initiatives.  

Donations to the CSM Foundation are tax deductible and can be made at any time. Visit the Foundation website for more information on how to make a gift online, through appreciated stocks or other giving vehicle. 

About CSM Foundation 

The CSM Foundation serves as the fundraising arm of the college connecting donors and regional partners in support of our students, faculty, programs, and community by cultivating relationships and stewarding assets consistent with our donors' intent.