News Summary
The University of Tennessee Foundation has achieved a historic fundraising milestone of $492.8 million in new gifts and commitments, surpassing last year’s record. With strong support from over 70,000 donors, the flagship campus in Knoxville received the majority of contributions, set to foster student success and improve programs. The fundraising efforts signal community confidence and ambition for the university’s future, with upcoming events like the Big Orange Give aimed at further raising funds for students and initiatives.
Knoxville, Tennessee – University of Tennessee Foundation Raises Record $492.8 Million
The University of Tennessee Foundation (UTFI) has achieved an unprecedented fundraising milestone, securing $492.8 million in new gifts and commitments for the year 2025. This remarkable figure surpasses the previous record of $400 million raised in 2024, marking the first time the foundation exceeded that amount.
Kerry Witcher, the president and CEO of UTFI, emphasized the importance of this achievement, describing it as “a defining moment in the life of the University of Tennessee.” Approximately 87% of the total funds raised came from the flagship campus, UT Knoxville, which garnered $428 million in contributions.
Donor Participation and Funding Growth
The fundraising effort saw participation from more than 70,000 donors, contributing an exceptional $94 million more than the previous year. The significant increase in donations indicates strong confidence in the university’s leadership and strategic direction.
UT System President Randy Boyd acknowledged the extraordinary nature of raising nearly half a billion dollars in a single year. The funding raises expectations for enhanced operations and capital projects across the UT system, with a focus on supporting student aspirations and success.
Impact on Students and Programs
According to Jackie Wise, Senior Director of Communications, the funds raised will play a crucial role in realizing the ambitions of students throughout the university. Brian Broyles, Senior Vice Chancellor for Advancement at UT Knoxville, noted the exceptional level of alumni engagement that contributed to this successful fundraising effort.
In addition to ongoing fundraising successes, the University of Tennessee will host a 24-hour fundraising event called Big Orange Give, with a goal to raise $1.5 million for both current and future students. Since the event’s inception in 2013, alumni and community contributions have totalled over $15 million.
Support for Specific Areas
The Big Orange Give event allows donors to contribute towards specific initiatives such as scholarships, academic programs, athletics, and research. The impact of these contributions is poignant, as highlighted by Lillie Etta Lawson, a first-generation college student at UT, who has greatly benefited from the university’s giving program.
Continued Athletic Success
Despite economic challenges and rising ticket prices, UT’s football program witnessed strong community support, maintaining high attendance rates and sellouts at games. The athletic department is also celebrating its highest fundraising total in history, with the Tennessee Fund raising $139.7 million during the 2023-24 year.
Conclusion
The record-breaking fundraising accomplishment by the University of Tennessee Foundation positions the institution favorably for ongoing growth and support. With a strong foundation of community engagement and alumni contributions, the university aspires to cultivate a nurturing environment that fosters student success and drives future initiatives.
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Additional Resources
- Hoodline: University of Tennessee Foundation Raises Record $492.8 Million
- WBIR: How to Donate to University of Tennessee’s Big Orange Give
- ESPN: Tennessee Ups Season Ticket Prices
- Knox News: Tennessee University Donations Kept Secret
- Wikipedia: University of Tennessee
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