Millersville University raised a record-breaking $1.4 million during its annual One Day Give, which evolved this year into a three-part celebration of philanthropy culminating in the inaugural Presidential Gala on April 17, the university's 171st birthday. Three campaigns were united under the banner One University: 75 Hours of Giving: Lancaster County Community Foundation's ExtraGive on Nov. 21, 2025, which raised funds for the Ware Center for the Arts; the Marauders Day of Giving in February 2026, during which donors gave to support Millersville athletics; and the One Day Give on April 16 and 17, which supported academics and scholarships.

Held at the Ware Center, the Presidential Gala also launched a five-year countdown to the university's 175th anniversary in 2030, signaling a new era of collaboration among alumni, businesses, and community leaders. The event included the presentation of the inaugural Presidential Gala Awards, a new tradition recognizing individuals who lead with integrity and innovation.

The Integritas Award for Excellence in Business, which honors ethical leaders who foster community engagement and empower others through entrepreneurship and integrity, was presented to Samuel N. Lombardo and Dena M. Lombardo. An entrepreneur, Samuel is the founder and chairman emeritus of the Benecon Group and ConnectCare3. He and his wife have created significant opportunities for Millersville students through their long-standing philanthropic support. Their most recent gift was transforming the historic Brooks Hall into the Samuel N. and Dena M. Lombardo Hall, home of the Lombardo College of Business. They have also supported the construction of the Lombardo Welcome Center, as well as student scholarships, faculty development, equipment, and internships.

The Innovandi Award for Excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics honored Kevin B. Mahoney and Pamela J. Mahoney for their leadership in advancing scientific discovery, technological innovation, and education. Pamela earned her degree in special education from Millersville in 1982 and has taught at the Woods School, the Phelps School, and the Overbrook School for the Blind. Kevin, Class of 1981, is the chief executive officer of the University of Pennsylvania Health System. In 2020, the Mahoneys established the Pamela Kane Mahoney '82 Special Education Scholarship to support students pursuing careers in elementary special education. Kevin also received the university's Distinguished Alumni Award in 2021.

The Pharus Award for Leadership in Education was awarded to Sen. Scott F. Martin, Class of 2002, and Amber L. Martin, recognizing their commitment to expanding access to education and opportunity. Amber currently serves as Lancaster County treasurer and is a local business owner whose company develops and manages homeowner and condominium associations throughout central Pennsylvania. A lifelong Lancaster County resident, Scott was elected to represent Pennsylvania's 13th Senatorial District in November 2016 and was re-elected in 2020 and 2024. He currently serves as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and previously chaired both the Senate Education Committee and the Senate Local Government Committee.

Current students played an integral role in the Presidential Gala. MUTV students assisted with the production of videos that accompanied each award presentation, and members of the Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association created special Millersville clocks for presentation to the honorees. Students from the Tell School of Music provided entertainment during the opening reception and throughout dinner.