ISU sets new fundraising record

Illinois State University said Monday it was the second time over $36 million was raised in the past four years and marks the fifth consecutive fiscal year of raising more than $21 million. (WJBC file photo)

 

By Neil Doyle

NORMAL – Illinois State University raised a university record of more than $37.3 million in private support during the fiscal year that ended June 30.

It was the second time over $36 million was raised in the past four years and marks the fifth consecutive fiscal year of raising more than $21 million, according to a release Monday. Private gift support assists the university in providing student scholarships, program enhancements, faculty support, and facility improvements.

“Illinois State benefactors responded to the call to invest in the University with enthusiasm and unwavering support,” said ISU President Larry Dietz. “Illinois State is honored to be on the receiving end of the generosity of dedicated individuals and organizations.”

During fiscal year 2019 gift support helped ISU reach its goal of $150 million for the Redbird Rising campaign. More than 51,000 donors have committed resources in excess of $160 million during the campaign to date.

Other fundraising highlights from fiscal year 2019 include:

  • $10.7 million in scholarship support;
  • 42 new endowments;
  • More than $16.3 million in cash received
  • A record-setting year for the College of Fine Arts in total amount of gifts and gift commitments secured; and
  • The most funds raised since the Redbirds Rising campaign began in July 2013 for the College of Education, Milner Library, and WGLT Radio

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

Blogs

Labor Day – Expanding voting rights for all

By Mike Matejka Because of COVID, there is no Labor Day Parade this year.  It’s always a great event for our everyday workers to march proudly down the street and enjoys the festive crowd. If there had been a parade, this year’s Labor Day theme was to be “150 years of struggle: your right to vote.” …

Is federal mobilization the answer?

By Mike Matejka As President Donald Trump threatens to send federal marshals into Chicago, over the objections of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, recall another Illinois Governor who protested the incursion of armed federal personnel into the city.   Those federal troops, rather than calming, escalated the situation, leading to deaths and violence. Illinois poet Vachel Lindsay…

In these troubled times, to my fellow white Americans

By Mike Matejka Our nation is at a unique watershed in human relations. African-Americans have been killed too many times in the past before George Floyd, but the response to this man’s death is international and all-encompassing. I was a grade-schooler during the Civil Rights 1960s. I watched Birmingham demonstrators hosed and the Selma – Montgomery…

Workers’ Memorial Day – Remember those whose job took their life

Looking around our community, when we say employer, most will respond to State Farm, Country, or Illinois State University.   We too often forget those who are building our roads, serving our food, or our public employees. COVID-19 has made us more aware of the risk.  Going to work every day for some people means…