Athens, Ga. – The University of Georgia raised $110.8 million in gifts and commitments for the fiscal year that ended June 30, setting a new record for private giving at the nation’s oldest state-chartered university.
The previous record of $108.3 million was set in fiscal year 2006 during the university’s Archway to Excellence Campaign, which ended in 2008 and raised more than $653 million over seven years. Fiscal year 2009 marks the fourth consecutive year that private giving to the university topped $100 million.
“In these difficult economic times, donors realize that higher education is one of the best investments that we can make in Georgia’s future,” said UGA President Michael F. Adams. “We are grateful for their generosity, which allows us to excel in our teaching, research and service missions.”
Adams noted that the fundraising record also reflects the university’s continued emphasis on bolstering the support it receives from the state with private funds. Last year development officers conducted a record of 7,647 personal visits with prospects and donors around the state and nation.
For fiscal year 2009, the university raised $110,796,547 from 53,907 contributors.
UGA Senior Vice President for External Affairs Tom Landrum said the university’s enthusiasm over its strong and continuing support is tempered by a decline in its endowment stemming from the recession.
“These are certainly challenging times,” Landrum said. “But we’re fortunate to have alumni and friends who have consistently demonstrated their commitment to this university.”