Thank you for investing in the future of the School of Biological Sciences. Your generosity creates opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach, empowering students, supporting faculty innovation, and enhancing the experiences that define our community.
Because of your support through the Excellence Fund, meaningful progress is happening every day. The accomplishments highlighted in this report reflect the impact of your partnership, and we are grateful for your commitment to our mission.
With sincere appreciation,
GO COUGS!
How your gifts made an impact in 2025-2026:
Enhanced Graduate Student Development.
Excellence Funds helped support the annual Graduate Student Symposium through event costs and refreshments, providing graduate students with opportunities to present their research, receive feedback, and build professional connections with faculty and peers.
Strengthened Recruitment Efforts.
Funding supported graduate student and faculty candidate visits by covering meeting spaces and meals. These investments helped the School attract talented students and faculty who contribute to the strength and reputation of its teaching, research, and outreach programs.
Fostered Community and Student Success.
Excellence Funds supported the Graduate Peer Mentor Program through refreshments for mentoring events, helping build connections among students, encourage engagement, and support retention and academic success.
Improved Operational Efficiency.
New computer equipment was purchased to replace aging technology, increasing productivity and ensuring staff have the tools needed to effectively support students, faculty, and the School’s administrative operations.
Expanded Access to Research Tools.
Funding provided ArcGIS software licenses for graduate students across all three campuses, giving them access to advanced geospatial analysis tools that support coursework, interdisciplinary research, and data-driven problem solving.
These investments support student success, strengthen recruitment and retention efforts, enhance research and professional development opportunities, and improve operational effectiveness. By providing students and faculty with the resources, technology, and opportunities they need to excel, Excellence Funds help the School of Biological Sciences advance its educational and research mission while preparing the next generation of scientific leaders.