KU celebrates record year for private support

LAWRENCE – The generosity of donors supporting the University of Kansas reached a new pinnacle in fiscal year 2011, totaling $153.2 million. This is the fourth year in a row of record private support for KU during a period marked by economic uncertainty.

The gifts were recorded in the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2011. The total included gifts, current pledges and future commitments in support of KU and the University of Kansas Hospital.

These contributions will be part of Far Above: The Campaign for Kansas, the comprehensive campaign scheduled for public kick-off in April 2012.

"This new milestone in private philanthropy reflects the passion donors have for KU and the University of Kansas Hospital," said Dale Seuferling, president of KU Endowment. "Once again, donors have stepped up to the challenge. We are humbled by their steadfast generosity."

Drue Jennings, of Prairie Village, chairman of the Board of Trustees of KU Endowment, said it takes teamwork to achieve fundraising success.

"Partnering with donors, KU Endowment is proud to help the university and the hospital serve the people of our state and region," said Jennings.

Of the $153.2 million, $112.5 million came in gifts and pledges, $39 million in deferred gift commitments, and $1.7 million in gifts made directly to KU.

"It is gratifying that KU's mission and priorities are resonating with our alumni and friends," said Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little. "Their generosity will enable us to educate leaders, build healthy communities and make discoveries that will change the world."

Gray-Little added that state financing covers only about 22 percent of KU's total operating expenses. "Private gifts are essential to virtually all activities of the university," she said.

In fiscal 2010, donors contributed $110.2 million in gifts and pledges, $10.3 million in deferred gift commitments, and $1.9 million in gifts directly to KU, for a combined total of $122.4 million.

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.