Cardinal 100

4 photo collage. photo in top left is of the SVSU Esports room, top right is two students laughing while driving a golf card, bottom left is a students petting a dog that is sticking out of a car window and the dog is licking the student's face. Photo on the bottom right is of two students on a golf cart during move in.

What is Cardinal 100?

We're looking for 100 visionary alumni to launch the Cardinal 100 Fund — and we want you to be one of them!

With just $100, you'll join an exclusive group of alumni who don't just donate — they decide. In the fall, you'll vote on the most promising student projects, directly shaping SVSU's future, with the winning proposal receiving your $10,000 to complete the project.

Jackson Ely standing next to the Cardinal 100 check for $10,000

2025 Project Winner: SVSU Observatory Restoration

The Cardinal 100 donors selected SVSU student, Jackson Ely, as the inaugural Cardinal 100 winner! Jackson will use the $10,000 to restore the SVSU Observatory on campus. He has been working on this project independently since the summer and is thrilled to now have the resources to begin repairing the telescope. His goal is to have the observatory fully operational by October 2026, with plans to establish an Astronomy Club to ensure it becomes an active and engaging space for students.

two students working on the SVSU race car

Become a Member

Be a part of the 2026 Cardinal 100 Fund! Payments can be made by check or digitally and can be made upfront or in installments. If you have any questions about payments, contact the SVSU Foundation Office at 989-964-4052.

student presenting to her peers at a student showcase

Submit a Proposal

Thank you to all students who submitted a Cardinal 100 proposal! The proposal form for the 2026 Cardinal 100 Fund on January 1, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline to donate to be a part of the inaugural 100?

In order to be a Cardinal 100 member, you must have donated $100 by November 1, 2025.

Can this count as a tax write-off?

Yes, it can! For questions, contact the Foundation Office at 989-964-4052 or foundation@svsu.edu.

I am not an alumni, can I still participate in Cardinal 100?

Yes! Any SVSU alumni, staff, or community member can be a Cardinal 100 donor.

My spouse and I are both alumni. Can we donate $100 and get two votes at the event?

Unfortunately not. Both spouses can attend the event, but you will only get one vote unless you both become Cardinal 100 donors.

What if I cannot make it to the Cardinal 100 Reception?

You must be in person to vote for the winning student proposal. If you cannot make it, you can send a proxy to vote for you. If you are doing this, please register as yourself, and in the additional information section, write the name of the person who will vote for you.

CONTACT US.

Alumni
Wickes Hall 160
alumni@svsu.edu
(989) 964-4196