Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

St. John's University has initiated a major fundraising campaign, "HEARTS ON FIRE: The Campaign for St. John’s University," with a goal of raising $400 million. This marks the most ambitious fundraising effort in the university's 155-year history.

The announcement was followed by a weekend of events designed to engage students, faculty, staff, and alumni in this significant initiative. During a reception at the D’Angelo Center on the Queens campus, William J. Janetschek, Chair of the Board of Trustees and retired Partner and Chief Financial Officer at Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., announced his donation of $32.5 million—the largest single financial commitment in the university's history. His contribution will fund both a new basketball practice facility and student scholarships.

Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., University President, highlighted St. John's longstanding mission to educate children of immigrants and emphasized that "our challenges are in front of us—and it’s the mission that guides and inspires us."

Margaret La Rosa D’Angelo and Peter P. D’Angelo also made significant contributions with their $20 million donation toward the St. Vincent Health Sciences Center.

Janetschek noted that all speakers credited their education at St. John's as life-changing experiences that motivated them to give back: “Everything we do is about the students.”

The university hosted its annual Stormin’ Loud event on May 2 as part of engaging employees with HEARTS ON FIRE, according to Scott VanDeusen, Assistant Vice President for Institutional Advancement.

On May 3, more than 350 alumni attended an Alumni Gala where Trustee Kevin F. Reed discussed the importance of alumni contributions: “We can really move the needle with your contribution.”

The weekend concluded with a special Mass on May 4 at St. Thomas More Church on campus led by Rev. Aidan R. Rooney.

Sara Hunt Munoz expressed gratitude towards alumni: “It’s a connection built on shared experiences...and I am truly grateful for each of you.”

Cesar Pozo remarked on supporting undergraduates: “Helping undergraduates who are in need helps the infrastructure of St. John’s.”