Since the University initiated the largest fundraising effort in state history in 2001, it has raised more than $400 million, surpassing the two-thirds mark in its more than seven-year quest to raise $600 million.
Already Campaign Oregon has raised more than any other fundraising effort in state history, said Allan Price, vice president for University Advancement.
“It’s the biggest campaign for anything in Oregon. Ever,” he said.
As of March 31, the University had collected $410.8 million in donations.
“We’re very excited and very gratified,” Price said. “You know, it’s so amazing that so many people have stepped forward who want to donate.”
Usually fundraising campaigns aim to raise between $40 to $45 million per year, Price said. He said that after the current fundraiser ends in 2008, the University plans to raise its fundraising goals to $90 to $100 million per year.
Price said more than 65,000 donors have contributed to the campaign, and more than half of the faculty has made a donation.
“We are extraordinarily grateful for the support,” he said.
The largest faculty donation was $38,000 given anonymously.
“Even internally, the University family has shown this is important,” Price said.
Part of the raised funds will go to faculty endowment funds for increased faculty salaries. The quality of the University is directly related to the quality of the faculty, Price said.
The majority of donations have come from within the state of Oregon, but 46 percent of the total raised came from out-of-state donors, according to a University press release.
Price said it has been “a lot of work” getting so many to donate, but it’s imperative to the University because of lagging state funding.
Price said the gifts are statement about the quality of the University.
“The gifts reflect a passion for the University and what the University is and what the University can be through these gifts,” he said.
Contact the news reporter at [email protected]