Donor Spotlight, Brad Shuman ('79)
San Diego State University alumnus and longtime supporter of the university, Brad Shuman (‘79), has found ways to stay connected to his alma mater over the years. From cheering on the Aztecs with his family to seeing all three of his children graduate from SDSU, the university has remained an important part of not only Brad’s story, but his entire family’s.
The Shuman family’s most recent philanthropic gift to SDSU Athletics fully funded the purchase of a new football equipment truck, giving the Aztecs the space and resources they need to transport the team’s equipment as technology and equipment needs continue to evolve. Brad and his family have also supported the SDSU Football Recruitment & Retention Fund, further reflecting his commitment to advancing SDSU Athletics and helping attract and retain student-athletes.
For Brad and his family, the gift is another way to give back to a university that has given them so much. The next time you see the Shuman family name on the truck, you’ll know it reflects their lasting connection to SDSU and their continued engagement as proud SDSU alumni.
Q: What inspired you to donate toward the football equipment truck?
As an SDSU alumnus, I’ve enjoyed cheering on the football team with my family for many years. A few years ago, I learned about the challenges the team faced transporting its equipment. In speaking with Omer Melzer-Bronstein, head football equipment manager, I came to understand how a larger, newer truck could help address those challenges. As equipment and technology continue to evolve, having adequate space is increasingly important. Contributing toward the truck felt like a meaningful way to help meet that need.
Q: Why is supporting the SDSU football program important to you and your family?
SDSU football has brought our family so much enjoyment over the years. Sports have always been an important part of our lives, and supporting the Aztecs gives us a chance to spend time together and feel connected to the university community. We’re grateful for those experiences and happy to support a program that means so much to us.
Q: What does it mean to see your support turn into something tangible that players and coaches can use?
It’s especially rewarding to see our contribution become something practical that the team can use. Knowing the truck helps players, coaches, and staff get the equipment they need on the road makes the impact of our support feel very real.
Q: In addition to supporting SDSU Athletics, you and your family have given to areas across campus, including the Canine Therapy Program and Presidential Scholars. What has inspired your philanthropic support across the university?
SDSU is my alma mater, but it’s also a community that means so much to our entire family. We’re proud to be Aztecs, and giving back is one way we can help students feel that same sense of connection and belonging at a great University.
We enjoy cheering on our teams, and our commitment extends across campus. The Canine Therapy Program is especially meaningful to us because it helps students feel comfortable on campus. Sometimes spending a little time with a dog can bring a smile, ease stress, and make an unfamiliar place feel more like home on Campus. Our Family loves our dog Carmel, and we would do anything for him. Supporting Presidential Scholars is another way we can help students pursue their goals and make the most of their SDSU experience.
For our family, it’s about showing up, staying involved, and helping the next generation of Aztecs thrive.
Q: As a longtime SDSU donor, what keeps you passionate about giving back to the university?
As an SDSU alumnus, I’ve also had the pleasure of seeing all three of my children graduate from the same university. SDSU has played an important role in our family’s education and growth, and I’m proud of that shared connection. Giving back is a way to express our gratitude, stay involved, and help support opportunities for future generations of students.