Private Giving Exceeds $100 Million for Third Consecutive Year

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas completed its 2013 fiscal year on June 30 and recorded $108.4 million in private giving support, surpassing its goal of $107 million. This achievement marks the third year in a row that the university has raised over $100 million. Fundraising totals reached $121.3 million in 2011 and $108.1 million in 2012.

As in subsequent years, these amounts include outright gifts of cash, gifts-in-kind, planned gifts and new pledges received from July 1, 2012, through June 30, 2013. Of the $108.4 million raised, approximately $27 million was designated to support athletics and the Razorback Foundation.

Cash receipts, which include pledge payments, outright gifts and estate and planned gift distributions, reached over $111 million, compared to $97.5 million the previous year. Boosted by some significant pledge payments, these receipt totals were especially strong.

“This accomplishment is impressive and uplifting because it shows the depth of loyalty from our donors and perseverance of our faculty and staff,” said Chris Wyrick, vice chancellor for university advancement. “Our benefactors continue to be supportive and encouraging, and the numbers show that. The fundraising success and momentum created over the last several years is inspiring as we work together to help the university reach its goal of becoming a top 50 public research university.”

Bob and Sandra Connor of Little Rock and Dallas, who have supported the university and its mission for many years, explained their motivation: “The University of Arkansas is on track for great things, and when the campus succeeds, we share in its accomplishments. Philanthropy is the key to its future success, and it’s uplifting to see so many people stand behind this wonderful institution, just as we do.”

Similarly, Johnelle Hunt, a long-time supporter of the university, applauded the fundraising accomplishments of the university and offered her congratulations. “The University of Arkansas has done a remarkable job again this year,” she said. “It makes me proud to be associated with such a strong program, and I appreciate the effective leadership in Chris Wyrick and Chancellor Gearhart. You can truly see the differences made across campus. So many great things have already been accomplished, yet there are even more opportunities on the horizon.”

Of the $108.4 million raised for academic and athletic programs during the 2013 fiscal year, 28 percent came from individuals, such as alumni, friends, faculty and staff. Another 37 percent came from corporations, while 28 percent came from foundations and 7 percent came from other organizations. Students and programs were supported with 49 percent of the money raised, while nearly 37 percent supported capital improvements, 9 percent supported faculty and staff and 5 percent supported other initiatives. The campus brought in a record-setting 86,976 outright gifts and new pledges from 47,332 benefactors during the fiscal year. There were also an impressive 12,258 new donors to the university.

Approximately $18 million of the total amount raised, or 16.9 percent, was allocated for endowed funds and will add to the university’s overall endowment total.

“We are humbled that our benefactors continue to support us with their outstanding philanthropy,” said Chancellor G. David Gearhart. “We have made great strides in establishing a culture of giving at the university and educating our campus, donors and alumni on the importance of giving back. The results are astounding across campus. Our enrollment numbers continue to increase, and we have the ability to offer scholarships to students who may not otherwise be able to attend. Our existing facilities have undergone significant improvements and new facilities are being built to accommodate our growth. It is an exciting time to be a part of the University of Arkansas family.”

Private gift support continues to be a critical component to the university’s success, as it adds to the academic opportunities available to faculty, staff and students on campus. Benefactors’ gifts enhance all aspects of the student experience, including academic and need-based scholarships, technology enhancements, new and renovated facilities, undergraduate, graduate and faculty research, study abroad opportunities and innovative programs. The university makes every effort to align donors’ giving interests with campus priorities.