Voluntary support of the California State University reached the quarter-billion dollar mark in 2001/2002—an all-time high for the 23-campus system. Despite the challenges of a weakened economy, fundraising income totaled $257.2 million, exceeding the previous year’s figures.

This strong show of support by a broad donor base of alumni, corporations, foundations and friends is testimony to the value of the CSU’s mission—to provide high-quality university education to meet the ever-changing needs of the people of California. This support will benefit the CSU’s institutions in significant ways. More than half of the funds raised will be used for operations to offset reduced budgets and sizeable state cutbacks. This support will help sustain the quality of academic programs that has characterized the CSU as a leading institution.Nearly a quarter of the funds raised this past year went to support capital projects including building campaigns and the purchase of new equipment.

Nearly every giving category reported increases in support. Corporate donations reached a record high, surpassing $100 million for the first time. Foundation giving and giving from other supporting organizations increased as well. Funds generated this year that were designated for endowment grew to over $44 million, more than compensating for any investment losses that might have depleted these critical funds and maintaining the sustained growth trend of CSU endowed funds.

The sustained confidence of individual donors including alumni, parents and friends of the CSU was important to the success of our programs this year. Although cash and outright gifts from individuals declined, deferred gifts and pledges increased substantially ensuring a sustained level of support into the future.

Clearly, the investment the CSU has made in its fundraising and development programs over the last 10 years is producing benefits across the board. The strong relationships formed by each campus with its faculty and staff, its community and business partners, and a growing number of alumni and friends attest to advancement programs that continue to mature and produce significant successes. These relationships have formed the basis for the solicitation of increasing number of major gifts, annual gifts, alumni memberships and campaign pledges.

The strong showing in fundraising during 2001/2002 is a clear validation of the important work the CSU is doing in achieving its academic mission—to educate the workforce of California; to train tomorrow’s teachers, nurses, engineers, artists and professionals; and to provide access to a high-quality education for California’s students. Now, more than ever, advancement programs are providing turnkey support for the innovative programs and partnerships that give the CSU a national reputation for excellence in higher education.