University renamed for Denny Sanford

Oct. 9, 2019

San Diego-based National University will be renamed Sanford National University in honor of the contributions philanthropist Denny Sanford has made to the school.

Launching July 1, 2020, the renamed Sanford National University will implement and advance five key areas of focus it says are designed to transform the higher education sector for post-secondary students nationwide: student success, access, affordability, innovation and workforce development.

“We are so grateful for all that Denny has done for National University over the years and are deeply honored to rename the university in recognition of the many contributions he has made to education and our society at large,” said Michael Cunningham, chancellor of the National University System, which includes National University.

“Denny’s vision and commitment to solving some of our society’s greatest challenges are great inspirations for us as we innovate and develop new models for student success. Clearly, we are very excited to have the opportunity to partner with Denny Sanford to significantly support our nation’s post-secondary students for generations to come.”

The private, nonprofit National University, which was launched in 1971, offers online and campus-based programs to serve adult learners, a student population that includes those who are working, raising families, as well as first-generation students.

Sanford’s contributions have included a range of education-focused, research-based programs that are being expanded nationally through the National University System.

They include the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy, which provides training for frontline fundraisers to expand the good work of their nonprofits.

Sanford Harmony a PreK-6 social emotional learning program, is designed to help boys and girls develop healthy relationships into their adult lives and reduce divorce rates through the acquisition of universally beneficial skills in cooperation, collaboration and inclusion that support student achievement and success.

Sanford Inspire provides educators with online resources and modules to create inspiring PreK-12 classrooms. In 2015, Sanford was honored with the naming of National University’s Sanford College of Education, which is among the top 10 largest schools of education in the nation. The Sanford programs have positively impacted more than 9 million students to date worldwide, according to the university.

“I am thrilled to be associated with such a world-class organization and am honored and humbled to have my name alongside National University,” Sanford said. “I look forward to the positive impact Sanford National University will have on students and society at large and for the inspiration it will provide future generations to make a difference for their families, communities and our nation.”

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University renamed for Denny Sanford

San Diego-based National University will be renamed Sanford National University in honor of the contributions philanthropist Denny Sanford has made to the school

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