FY19 Largest Single Fundraising Year in Syracuse University History

One year after announcing—and then exceeding—its ambitious 2018 fundraising goal, Syracuse University has broken another fundraising record. In fiscal year 2019, gifts, pledges and gifts-in-kind from individuals, foundations and organizations totaled $163,431,283—the highest one-year fundraising total in the University’s history. The total is 8.9 percent greater than the $150,087,407 raised in FY 2018.

“Syracuse University’s momentum is undeniable,” says Chancellor Kent Syverud. “The Orange spirit fueling the generosity of our donors is testament to their enthusiasm and support for our future and the futures of generations of students who will contribute in meaningful ways to improve our world. The vision for Syracuse University, in which our students have a truly distinctive experience that prepares them for long-lasting success, is clearly inspirational. We are grateful for the growing support, year after year, from all corners of the country and the world.”

With the Invest Syracuse campaign still underway and the start of events marking the sesquicentennial celebration, Syracuse University is attracting an increasingly broad and diverse set of donors. Nearly 61,000 donors made gifts of support for the vision of Syracuse University. That’s a 16 percent increase in the number of donors from the year before.

More than half the total raised over the last year came from alumni.

“They are telling us that they are grateful for their own Orange experiences and want to make a difference in the lives of students today and tomorrow,” says Matt Ter Molen, senior vice president and chief advancement officer. “Through their generosity, they are opening doors of opportunity for those coming behind them. In fact, this past year, more than $29 million was raised as part of the Invest Syracuse campaign to provide scholarships to deserving students.”

Invest Syracuse originally sought to raise $40 million in scholarship support. The University well exceeded that goal—raising $54 million with no signs of slowing down.

Ter Molen notes that there was an increase in all kinds of gifts, large and small, which contributed to the record total. There was a 50 percent increase in gifts over $500,000 and a 3.5 percent increase in gifts totaling more than $1 million. Finally, nearly 5,000 alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff and friends participated in the 2018 Boost the ’Cuse initiative, a one-day fundraising event. Collectively, donors contributed $1.76 million to the University as part of Boost the ’Cuse ranging in gifts from $5 to $100,000. This year’s Boost the ’Cuse will commence on Tuesday, Nov. 5, at 4 a.m. and run for an unprecedented 44 consecutive hours. To participate, visit boostcuse.syr.edu.

Momentum continues to build as Syracuse University prepares to launch its largest fundraising campaign in its 150 years. Though details are still being finalized, the Orange community is encouraged to stay tuned for a historic announcement, coming in early November. In the meantime, it’s never too early to give. No gift is too small, and every gift makes an impact. To make an immediate impact, give today by visiting giving.syr.edu or by contacting the Office of Development at 315.443.1848.

There are numerous other ways to engage with the University, including volunteer opportunities, connecting current students to internship opportunities and attending an alumni event. To learn more about how you can connect to, engage with and support Syracuse University, visit alumni.syr.edu or contact the Alumni Association directly by emailing sualumni@syr.edu.