The College of Charleston Launches a $300 Million Fundraising Campaign
The College of Charleston has officially launched a comprehensive fundraising campaign. Titled The Promise of Charleston, the drive carries a target of $300 million to expand institutional resources, student access, and regional economic impact.
The campaign was formally unveiled on the evening of November 5, 2026, during a black-tie gala held inside the university’s TD Arena. Directing the kickoff activities were College of Charleston President Andrew T. Hsu alongside Board of Trustees Chair Renee Buyck Romberger ’81, Executive Vice President of Student Affairs Alicia Caudill, and Dan Frezza, who serves as chief advancement officer of institutional advancement and chief executive officer of the College of Charleston Foundation.
Before the public debut, the institution quietly built substantial momentum during its planning years. By July 1, 2023, the university had already secured $167.5 million in early contributions, laying the groundwork for the broader public push.
President Hsu Frames Recent Growth as Campus Renaissance
University leadership frames the initiative as a direct continuation of the institution’s recent growth. President Hsu has characterized this era of development as a renaissance for the campus.
“It’s a promise to build on our momentum with purpose and to expand opportunity with intention,” says College of Charleston President Andrew T. Hsu, whose characterization of the university’s recent community impact, development, and overall growth is that of a renaissance. “It will ensure the College of Charleston continues to serve as a place where education transforms lives and strengthens our community for generations to come.”
Dan Frezza, who also serves as the chief executive officer of the College of Charleston Foundation, noted that the campaign’s title speaks to daily commitments made across the campus community. The fundraising effort encourages participation not just from traditional donor bases, but from residents throughout the broader Charleston region.
Alongside the headline financial target of $300 million, the institution aims to double its total number of alumni donors and triple the overall alumni engagement rate. Campaign co-chair Judy Buono ’22, who is leading the effort alongside husband Mark Buono ’81 (Honorary ’22), emphasized the long-term view of philanthropy.
“We believe that scholarships and other donations are an investment in the future of our region and country, as well as an investment in human capital,” she says. “We can’t think of a better investment than in the young people of this country.”
Proceeds from the campaign are earmarked to expand experiential learning opportunities and workforce development initiatives, connecting campus programs directly with the economic growth of the Lowcountry region. Additional information regarding the initiative and contribution opportunities can be found on The Promise of Charleston website.
