Ohio State receives $404 million from record number of donors

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A research participant demonstrates the motion used to assess lumbopelvic control during a stepping movement, in this case mimicking the start of a pitch.

A record 233,185 donors gave $404 million to The Ohio State University “But for Ohio State” campaign during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, an 8% increase over the previous year’s fundraising of $374 million. 73,737 Ohio State alumni contributed nearly $70 million to the 2014 total.

"It is very gratifying that so many alumni, faculty, staff and community leaders recognize that an investment in the university is an investment in the future," said President Michael V. Drake. "This campaign is about fulfilling the university’s mission of teaching, creating knowledge to elevate society and preparing the next generation of leaders."

The “But for Ohio State” campaign supports the academic mission and vision of the university under several priority areas: placing students first, driving research and innovation, elevating faculty and the academic enterprise, and creating modern learning environments.

“The support we receive from Ohio State alumni and donors is incredible,” said Senior Vice President for Advancement and President of The Ohio State University Foundation Michael C. Eicher. “They inspire us every day and positively impact countless lives with their generosity. We are deeply grateful for their support as they move us closer to our $2.5 billion campaign goal.”

Eicher attributed the continued upturn in alumni donations to concerted and sustained efforts by Ohio State to increase alumni engagement, including strengthening connections through affiliated clubs and societies, enhancing alumni volunteer opportunities, and expanding alumni career management to help job-seeking alumni make professional connections.

In addition to expanding alumni opportunities, Ohio State’s fundraising work is combined and coordinated with nationwide efforts to engage all friends of Ohio State in university life, even at a distance. “We continue to build on our connected community using technology, like mobile applications and social networking, to foster a greater understanding of Ohio State’s academic and research strengths,” said Eicher.