$10M Commitment For USD Programs For Military-Connected Students

SAN DIEGO, CA — U.S. Army veteran and longtime University of San Diego supporter Dan Epstein and his wife Phyllis are committing $10 million in matching funds over the next five years to fund support services for military-connected students.

The gift, provided through the Epstein Family Foundation, will translate to $20 million for the university, which has more than 900 military-connected students, such as active-duty service members, veterans and students from military families.

"Our family is honored to support this important initiative, ensuring that military-connected students have the resources they need and deserve," Dan Epstein said in a statement released Thursday.

"We invite the community to join us in this effort to create pathways of opportunity for those dedicated to lives of service and leadership. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for students today and for future generations."

Funds raised through the donation will support services such as scholarships, mental health and career counseling and assistance with the transition to civilian life, according to the university.

"I hope this gift shows USD's military-connected students how much we want them here," Nelson Chase, director of USD's Military and Veterans Program, said in a statement. "That we're not just veteran friendly, but we're veteran inclusive, and we're invested in their academic, professional and personal success."

The university called the donation a call to action aimed at generating $2 million in donations in each of the next five years that will be matched the Epstein gift.

— City News Service