Thanks to the generosity of more than 46,000 donors, UT Knoxville has achieved the best fundraising year ever, raising more than $235 million in the 2017–18 fiscal year.
“The amount of private support UT received this past year is a strong testament to the commitment that our alumni and the community have to this institution,” said Interim Chancellor Wayne T. Davis. “Without the loyal support of our donors, we would not be able to accomplish all that we do. The generosity of each gift will have a profound impact on the next generation of Volunteers.”
During this record year, alumni participation was at an all-time high. Of the 46,000 donors, 23,600 were alumni—including 3,100 first-time alumni donors. The number of graduating seniors who chose to give back to UT through the Senior Impact initiative surpassed previous records with more than 1,500 donors.
Growth can also be seen in chapter and council endowments. Alumni chapters and councils from across the country more than tripled their support for scholarships for current and future Vols.
Upcoming sophomore Christopher Busic, a recipient of the Houston alumni chapter scholarship, said, “This scholarship really helped with my out-of-state tuition and showed me that, as an alumnus, you can help further the education of someone else at your alma mater.”
Overall, UT has raised $1.025 billion toward the $1.1 billion Join the Journey campaign goal. These gifts have elevated programs all across campus by providing more than $84 million for professorships, $122 million for undergraduate scholarships, $64 million for graduate fellowships, $432 million for strategic priorities for colleges and units, and $321 million for athletics.
“This progress has been made possible because of involvement and support from thousands of dedicated alumni and friends,” said Chip Bryant, vice chancellor for advancement. “When each of our alumni gives one gift, any size, every year, it enhances the university’s ability to serve students, support research, and make UT a world-class institution.”
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CONTACT:
Mallorie Mendence (865-974-3011, mmendenc@utk.edu)