The University of Tennessee Foundation has generated their highest number of donors in university history with 67,281 during the 2019-2020 fiscal year. The UT Foundation received over $196 million in commitments and saw an increase in alumni participation with 222,230 alumni engaging with the university throughout the year.
“Our alumni and donors are passionate about the University, and their continued commitment creates opportunities throughout the University of Tennessee System that inspire others to do the same,” said Kerry Witcher, president and CEO of the UT Foundation.
The fiscal year came with challenges, as the COVID-19 pandemic began late in the third quarter. While it changed the course for many, it also led to alumni and friends raising over $645,000 for student emergency funds across each of the UT campuses. In addition, alumni offices quickly regrouped, changing in-person events to virtual platforms and creating digital engagement opportunities for alumni.
Giving totals are a compilation of gifts from each campus and institute. Individually, UT Knoxville surpassed $139 million, UT Institute of Agriculture $15 million, UT Health Science Center $16 million, UT Chattanooga $11 million and UT Martin $9 million.