News Taffy

Arkansas State University had a record number of donors and gifts to produce the second-best fundraising effort in the university's history for the 2009-10 fiscal year. In addition, the school raised more than $10 million for the second consecutive year, marking the first time ever for back-to-back $10 million-plus fundraising for the university.

For the fiscal year which ended on June 30, Cristian Murdock, vice chancellor for University Advancement, notes that ASU has received $10,315,563 in 23,039 gifts, an increase of 3.66 percent in the number of gifts over the previous year, from a record 7,146 donors, a 4.18 percent increase over the previous year.

This follows a record $14,823,207 received in 2009. "We are extremely pleased with the progression of the charitable contributions by our alumni and friends," said Murdock. "In today's economy, charitable support is vital to the university's continuing growth. Arkansas State University certainly appreciates the commitment by our donors to furthering its teaching, research and service to its students, as well as to the state."

Murdock noted, "The fact that ASU has brought in more than $10 million in back-to-back years to this point is testament that our alumni and friends continue to support ASU in difficult economic times and want to help and see us continue to grow."

Murdock, who joined ASU in 2008, stated he is especially pleased that ASU is enjoying a significant increase in funds raised from philanthropic sources since 2007, when the amount raised was $4.3 million. He also credits ASU's fundraising success in the past two years to the implementation of new comprehensive advancement goals for the university. Dr. Dan Howard, interim Chancellor stated, "Increases in charitable contributions enable ASU to provide a level of excellence not otherwise available from legislative appropriations and tuition and fees.

Cristian Murdock and his advancement team have done a superb job in connecting with donors and helping them achieve their philanthropic interests in supporting ASU." He went on to echo Murdock's expression of sincere and heartfelt appreciation to all who have contributed to ASU. "We are proud of the fact that the difference between 2007 and 2010 is such a dramatic increase," continued Murdock.

"Special things are happening at this emerging university. It is a combination of many factors - a lot of people taking a strong interest in our institution, real dynamic leadership, and the opportunity to tell a great story."