Private giving to University of Kansas tops $257 million

LAWRENCE, Kansas — Alumni and friends invested $257.4 million in the University of Kansas during the 2018 fiscal year, which ended June 30, marking the second highest philanthropic giving total in the university’s history. Donors designated 98 percent of this total for specific purposes, providing the margin of excellence for the university.

“Once again, Jayhawks have answered the call to help KU reach its aspirations. Their generosity reflects their pride in this university and their desire to invest in its future,” said Dale Seuferling, president of KU Endowment.

Another highlight of the 2018 fiscal year was the amount KU Endowment provided in direct support to the university – $191 million, a new record. This amount represents payments from expendable gifts and the income of endowed funds. This support strengthened every aspect of the institution through funding for scholarships and fellowships for students; professorships and faculty awards; academic program enhancements; promising research; and new facilities and renovations.

"Students and faculty at KU are dedicated to improving the world in which they live, and philanthropy is helping to provide them the resources to accomplish their dreams,” said KU Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. “The generosity of donors helps improve the student experience, expands outreach to our state and grows our research enterprise.”

The total giving amount represents donor contributions to all KU campuses and The University of Kansas Health System.

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. The University of Kansas Health System is a partner in philanthropy to KU Endowment.