National University joins the countless individuals, families, educators, nonprofit leaders, and organizations around the world mourning the passing of T. Denny Sanford, whose extraordinary generosity and unwavering belief in the power of education transformed millions of lives and strengthened communities for generations to come.
For more than a decade, Denny was a trusted partner in advancing National University’s mission to expand educational opportunity and create meaningful impact. His vision helped shape programs that continue to prepare educators, foster healthy learning environments, support student well-being, strengthen nonprofit leadership, and empower learners of all ages.
Denny’s partnership with National University began in 2013 and grew into a shared commitment to creating opportunities for others. Today, that legacy lives on through Sanford Learning, including Sanford Harmony and the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy, as well as the Sanford College of Education, one of the largest colleges of education in the United States and the institution that recommends more teachers for credentials than any other institution in California. His vision also extends into the heart of the student experience through the Sanford Family Clubhouse in The Nest.
To date, these efforts have helped more than 41 million children and youth, supported more than 600,000 educators, strengthened nonprofit leaders, and created lasting impact in schools, organizations, and communities around the world.
National University recognized Denny’s extraordinary contributions through the awarding of an honorary doctorate and later named him the inaugural recipient of the National University Humanitarian of the Year Award. These honors reflected not only his lifelong commitment to serving others, but also his enduring belief in helping create healthier, stronger, and more compassionate communities.
Beyond National University, Denny’s generosity helped shape the San Diego region and communities across the nation. His support advanced children’s healthcare, medical research, education, conservation, and community initiatives through organizations including Rady Children’s Hospital, Sanford Burnham Prebys, UC San Diego, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, and many others. Throughout his life, he brought together organizations from many sectors around a shared purpose: improving lives and expanding opportunity.
“Denny’s belief in the power of education was infectious, and his generosity in supporting National University helped catalyze programs and services that have changed the lives of millions of learners, tens-of-thousands of educators, and countless communities,” said Mark D. Milliron, PhD, president and CEO of National University. “His big ideas and even bigger heart help us make a powerful difference nationally and internationally.”
One of Denny’s favorite expressions was, “Aspire to Inspire Before You Expire.” While simple in its wording, it reflected the philosophy that guided his life. He challenged others to use their talents, resources, and influence in service of something greater than themselves, and he lived that belief every day through his extraordinary generosity and unwavering commitment to helping others thrive.
Today, Denny’s legacy is reflected not only in the institutions he supported, but in the educators who inspire future generations, the nonprofit leaders strengthening their communities, the students pursuing new opportunities, and the millions of children and youth benefiting from healthier learning environments.
“He was my dear friend, my mentor and one of the world’s most impactful philanthropist,” said Michael Cunningham, Ph.D., philanthropic advisor to Denny Sanford and chancellor emeritus for National University. “It was an honor to have a front row seat, watching Denny change the world for the better for millions of people around the world. His good works and legacy will live on forever. From all of us, Thank You Denny!!”
National University extends its deepest condolences to Denny’s family, friends, colleagues, and the many communities whose lives have been forever enriched by his vision, generosity, and enduring belief in the power of education.
His legacy will continue to inspire our university and the countless educators, students, nonprofit leaders, and communities who will carry his vision forward for generations to come.
