Illinois State University posted the second-highest fundraising year on record during fiscal year 2018, raising more than $21.9 million in private support. This marks the University’s fourth consecutive year surpassing $21 million in funds raised.
In addition, cash receipts pushed over $16 million, which was the best cash receipt total ever recorded at Illinois State. Gifts support scholarships, student life, faculty and staff, programs, research, technology, and facilities.
“Illinois State alumni and friends are energized by the positive trajectory of the University, and this excitement is reflected in our fundraising numbers,” said Vice President for University Advancement Pat Vickerman. “Thanks to our donors, Illinois State is operating from a position of strength and building on the University’s tradition of excellence. I’m incredibly proud to work with faculty and staff who inspire our alumni and friends to invest in ISU. ”
Other fundraising highlights in 2018 include:
- $8.6 million in student support, with 62 new scholarships;
- More than 11,000 alumni donated, including 1,067 first-time alumni donors;
- Total endowment growth of 9.1 percent to $126.3 million.
“I meet people every day who share with me their appreciation for Illinois State University,” said President Larry Dietz. “The fact that so many Redbirds are stepping forward to support their passion on campus is a great sign for the future. ISU is such a special place because loyal supporters want to see the University reach new heights of excellence.”
Fiscal year 2018 also marked the announcement of Redbirds Rising: The Campaign for Illinois State. The $150 million comprehensive campaign supports scholarship, leadership, and innovation and is the most ambitious campaign in the University’s history. More than 44,000 donors have already contributed over $121 million in gifts and commitments since the quiet phase of the campaign began in July 2013.
Spearheading the effort to encourage support for Redbirds Rising is the National Campaign Committee, a dedicated group of 59 volunteers led by campaign co-chairs Ken ’73 and Deborah (Hypke) Glover ’73; Jim ’74 and Carole (Czerniak) Mounier ’75; and Dan ’70 and Pam Kelley.
“As alumni, we feel an attachment to the University,” said Ken Glover. “We know and trust the University’s leadership and its organization and therefore, have stayed involved. If you feel a part of something, you want to help that much more.”
“Redbirds Rising presents an opportunity for those of us who love Illinois State to invest in its future,” said Debbie Glover. “Every gift makes ISU even better, so we want to encourage all Redbirds to join the effort to lift our university for decades to come.”
For more information about supporting Illinois State University, visit RedbirdsRising.IllinoisState.edu. A fact sheet on Illinois State’s fiscal year 2018 fundraising can be found online at https://giving.illinoisstate.edu/impact/facts.
