The numbers are in, and Scripps College surged past its fundraising goals for the 2016-17 year thanks to our devoted and generous alumnae, families, and friends. This was the largest cash giving year in the College’s history and included remarkable gifts to support The Scripps Fund, our endowment, and valuable programs for students, staff, and faculty. We thank the more than 3,000 individuals who contributed $16.6 million to support the College.
Once again, the month of June proved to be a valuable time for the College, bringing in nearly $3 million in cash and pledge gifts, including a $1 million real estate gift from Joanna Dunklee ’62, an estate pledge from Linda Kollar ’66, and nearly $50,000 from a successful day of giving campaign.
The foundation of any institution, the annual fund, drives operations and programs at that institution. The Scripps Fund supports scholarships, internships, campus enhancement, and diversity and inclusivity initiatives, to name a few focus areas. By fiscal year-end, The Scripps Fund grew by 5.4% from last year’s numbers. Your support helped us reach $3.9 million by June 30, capping a record-breaking year and surpassing the $3.8 million goal. The More Scripps Campaign grew by $16 million to $144 million.
Michael P. Archibald, vice president for Institutional Advancement, says, “This unprecedented level of philanthropy for Scripps College demonstrates the collective power of our community and the extraordinary dedication felt by our donors. Together, we have made possible a Scripps education for a generation of young women who will contribute to our world in profound ways. In that way, Scripps is a great investment.”
And while we surpassed many of our goals, we turn to our dedicated alumnae, families, and friends with a message. Over 2,150 alumnae, representing nearly 30% of all Scripps alumnae, gave to support the College this past year. Although more dollars were contributed by alumnae, overall participation remained level. Alumnae and parent gifts, no matter the amount, are a symbol of your affiliation and commitment to Scripps.
Your annual support to Scripps and The Scripps Fund drives the campus experience for our students every year: Career Planning & Resources relies on your annual support to sponsor more than 75 students through their internship grants program; Scripps College Academy relies on your annual support to provide resources and mentorship to low-income, first generation college students; and the College relies on your annual support to enhance our counseling services and wellness programs. We cannot do this work without you! Our collective power enhances the Scripps College experience.
As we celebrate the year and look to our future, we invite your continued participation and engagement. Join us for an event, connect with other alumnae or families in your region, and consider making a gift to Scripps. Let’s make 2017-18 our best yet!
For information about the “More Scripps” Campaign or ways to get involved, visit our campaign website.