University gifts rise to record level

P rivate gifts to the University in 1998-99 rose to an unprecedented level of $46,865,000--more than 24 percent above the record year for contributions from donors, and 63 percent above the previous fiscal year.

"It certainly was a banner year for us," said Holli Budd, vice president for development. "This is a credit to the development staff around the institution--and to the growing ranks of University supporters."

The gifts, which are measured as cash received during the 1998-99 year, will underwrite current program needs and endowment for long-term use. Some $15 million of the $46,865,000 will go toward endowment, Budd said.

"Voluntary giving at any institution is usually cyclical, with 'up years' and 'down years.' I'm glad we've received such extraordinary support in the past year, which even surpassed any year within our Campaign for the '90s," she added.