Campaign news

Alumni contributing to campaign success

by Jodi Auvin

From M, spring 2003

Campaign Minnesota began in 1996 as a defining moment in the U's future. Today, just weeks shy of the campaign's June 30 end date, it's safe to say that the defining taking place is of historic proportions. More than $1.589 billion had been given through March by corporations, foundations, organizations, and individuals.

The even better news is that these gifts are already hard at work, supporting a wide range of campaign priorities. These include 102 new endowed chairs, a three-fold increase in scholarships and fellowships, funds for at least 25 new or renovated buildings, and new resources for research and ongoing programs.

Alumni giving has been critical to this success. Since campaign counting began in 1996, a total of $440 million has been given by 82,000--or 23 percent--of the U's alumni.

Annual gifts from alumni are always critical to the U's success, and during the past seven years, these gifts have all also counted toward Campaign Minnesota.

Here's how to make a gift to the U:

• Online: See www.campaign.umn.edu.
• By phone: Call 612-626-8560 or 800-775-2187 to make a credit card gift, or call the University of Minnesota Foundation at 612-624-3333 for information.
• By mail: Use the gift envelope enclosed in your printed issue of M.
• Estate gifts also count. Call Planned Giving at 612-624-3333 for information.