Donor Contributions More than Double
Spring 2011 · Comment ·
Philanthropic support reached record levels last year, accelerating the University’s progress toward becoming a major national research institution. UT Arlington generated an unprecedented $15.2 million in gifts and pledges in the 2009-10 fiscal year, up from $5.9 million the previous year. The total includes the largest cash commitment in the University’s history—$5 million from Houston-based Carrizo Oil & Gas Inc. to support College Park Center, now under construction. UT Arlington President James D. Spaniolo credits alumni, individual, and corporate donors for strengthening the philanthropy portfolio. “Great universities, and great state universities more than ever, depend on the support of generous alumni and friends to enhance their academic and research profiles,” Spaniolo says. “UT Arlington’s star is rising in direct relation to increasing private support from our partners.” A unique aspect of the University’s philanthropy program is the Maverick Match, which leverages new endowments with royalties generated by the natural gas exploration partnership with Carrizo. The program matches gifts of $25,000 or more paid out over five years. Last year brought 67 Maverick Match commitments valued at $4.5 million. “A strong endowment undergirds strong academic programs and provides long-term financial stability for universities,” says Jim Lewis, vice president for development. “These endowed gifts are building momentum and provide that margin of excellence.” Lewis credits the 43-member Development Board chaired by Ralph Hawkins, chief executive officer of HKS Inc., with playing a major role in helping the University achieve record giving levels. Other 2009-10 highlights include 51 new endowments valued at a combined $3.6 million and an increase from 5,000 to 6,500 donors.
