Philanthropic giving transforms lives
Alumni support enhances university's academic mission
When our nation faces challenges, when economies lag, when giving back becomes difficult, Ohio University alumni continue to make their alma mater a priority.
An $83 million estate gift from Fritz J. (BSEE '42), and Dolores H. Russ — which will support academic excellence in the Russ College of Engineering and Technology — brought overall fundraising in fiscal year 2009 to $107 million.
Equally important are benefactors such as Mimi Bogard, AB '71, who has made 37 gifts through the Annual Fund in 30 different fiscal years in the 38 years since her graduation. Although each gift is less than $100, as a whole, they represent an extraordinary commitment to alma mater.
In fiscal year 2009, annual gifts of $1 to $10,000 added up to more than $4.75 million. When combined, these gifts transform lives. For example, Ohio University ranks sixth in the nation for graduation rate performance among national universities and liberal arts colleges — coming in 16 percent higher than predicted.
There’s more evidence of excellence: The College of Osteopathic Medicine's classes of 2007 and 2008 scored No. 1 among the 22 osteopathic medical schools in the nation on the most recent Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination. And the College of Business is recognized as one of the nation’s top 50 undergraduate business programs.
"Private gifts — particularly in difficult times — support this level of academic achievement," says President Roderick J. McDavis. "They represent the difference between a good university and a great one!"
For more information on making a difference at Ohio University and to make a gift to the area that means the most to you, call 800-592-FUND (3863) or e-mail giving@ohio.edu. Secure online giving is available at www.ohio.edu/give.
Posted 12-15-2009
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