News and Progress

Private donations break MU fundraising records

Sept. 30, 2004

Despite an uncertain economic climate that indicated fundraising challenges for higher education, private funding for the University of Missouri-Columbia broke records this fiscal year raising $130,589,976.

“This has been a tremendous year in terms of support for all that we're doing here at the University of Missouri-Columbia,” said David Housh, vice chancellor for Development and Alumni Relations. “We enjoyed our most productive year during the largest comprehensive campaign in the history of the University System. I've said before this campaign will change the face of education on this campus, the state, the nation and the world, and we've seen that happen already. We are incredibly grateful for the generous support of our loyal alumni, donors and friends.”

MU's surge in private donations comes on the strength of the campus' $600 million For All We Call Mizzou comprehensive campaign, which began in 1999 and is scheduled to run through 2005. So far, the campaign has raised a total of $468,038,111.40.

One of the key aspects of the campaign is student support, which helps fund scholarships and undergraduate programs. Currently, student support has reached more than $90 million.

“All of us involved in the leadership are true believers in a degree from this University, and the results of this capital campaign will provide program enhancements for many years to come,” said Bill Thompson, co-chair of the national campaign steering committee. I speak for many others in saying it is a very exciting time to be on the MU bandwagon.”