Giving to KU reaches $110.2 million, a new milestone

October 5, 2010

For the third year in a row, contributions to KU Endowment in support of the University of Kansas reached a new record. Donors gave $110.2 million in fiscal year 2010, which ended June 30, a 3.6 percent increase over the previous year.

The $110.2 million came in the form of outright gifts and pledges. Donors documented an additional $10.3 million in deferred gifts, which will benefit KU in the future. The number of donors also reached a new record: 45,192.

According to Giving USA, an annual report on philanthropy, contributions to higher education declined by 3.6 percent nationally in calendar year 2009.

“This demonstrates the confidence alumni and friends have in KU,” said Dale Seuferling, president of KU Endowment. “We are thankful for their support of the university’s leadership in teaching and research and of the University of Kansas Hospital for its outstanding patient care.”

“In light of the uneven economic climate, our donors’ generosity is truly impressive,” said Kurt D. Watson, chair of the KU Endowment Board of Trustees. “Their contributions enabled us to make a powerful impact on KU that will last for generations.”

In fiscal year 2009, outright gifts and pledges to KU reached $106.4 million, a 13 percent increase over the previous year. In fiscal year 2008, contributions totaled $94 million, a 21 percent increase over the previous year.

Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little said support from private donors is vital for the university to maintain its mission of access, service and leadership.

“With the funding challenges facing higher education in the state, support from private donors has become all the more critical for KU,” said Gray-Little. “Their generosity helps transform students’ lives and provides the resources for our faculty to excel in discovery and teaching.”

Highlights of giving in fiscal 2010 include

— 54 new scholarships, fellowships and awards, which provide opportunities for students
— Four new professorships, which help recruit and retain outstanding faculty
— 69 new endowed funds, which will benefit the university in perpetuity

KU Endowment is the independent, nonprofit organization serving as the official fundraising and fund-management organization for KU. Founded in 1891, KU Endowment was the first foundation of its kind at a U.S. public university.

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October 5, 2010