Mid-Year Fundraising Tops Previous Year

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – At the mid-point of the 2013 fiscal year, the University of Arkansas has raised $61,798,223, a 15 percent increase over the amount raised at this point during the previous fiscal year.

“Once again, we are on track for another successful fundraising year thanks to the generosity of University of Arkansas alumni, friends, faculty, staff, parents and students,” said Chancellor G. David Gearhart. “I am pleased that our benefactors continue to demonstrate their confidence and loyalty by supporting higher education and the university’s initiatives, despite the concern over fiscal cliff ramifications or the political climate. This truly makes a difference in the future of our institution and allows us to offer an exceptional educational experience.”

The amount raised thus far includes outright gifts of cash, gifts-in-kind, new planned gifts and new pledges. Funds have been designated for academic and athletic purposes such as scholarships, diversity initiatives, new construction and renovation projects, the Razorback Foundation and University Libraries.

“The faculty and staff who work with our donors – both in front-line fundraising efforts and behind the scenes – are instrumental to this accomplishment,” said Bruce Pontious, associate vice chancellor for university development. “They do an outstanding job of aligning donor interests with university priorities and have been critical to our success. Our donors know they are respected and appreciated and can rely on our team to represent their best interests.”

In addition to dollars raised, there has also been an increase in the number of gifts and household donors. Both of these statistics are encouraging as the university enters the second half of its fiscal year, which ends June 30, and strives to reach its fundraising goal of $107 million for the fiscal year.