Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Donors contributed more than $23.2 million in gifts and commitments to the University of North Carolina Wilmington during fiscal year 2018-19. Contributions came from more than 11,000 donors with almost half a million dollars ($493,299) raised from gifts of $100 or less. This year’s totals also included the university’s largest-ever gift commitment, $10 million from alumnus David Congdon ’78, and his wife, Helen, to establish the David S. Congdon School of Supply Chain, Business Analytics and Information Systems.

“UNCW’s culture of philanthropy is growing,” said Eddie Stuart, vice chancellor for university advancement. “We’re looking forward to building upon that momentum as we continue to enhance engagement offerings, increase alumni participation and demonstrate the transformational impact that philanthropy has on our campus and community.”

Current students were a big part of this fiscal year’s donor base with 7 percent of the student body making a gift. In fact, over the past three years, 20 student-led crowdfunding initiatives have raised over $50,000.

UNCW faculty, staff, alumni, students, parents and friends also stepped up during UNCW’s annual Give More in 24 Challenge, which raised over a quarter of a million dollars to benefit academic, athletic and student-life programs.

Following a campus closure due to Hurricane Florence that was nearly a month long, the Seahawk community came together unlike ever before, with more than 1,200 donors giving over $233,000 in support. These funds were granted to 437 students and 73 employees to assist with emergency housing, transportation needs and other unforeseen expenses.

“The collective response in Florence’s aftermath demonstrated the resilience and spirit of the Seahawk family,” said Chancellor Jose V. Sartarelli. “Every year, our donors’ willingness to invest in UNCW’s future is a true testament to the strength, pride and generosity of our campus community.”

A key priority of the university’s Strategic Plan is to build strong donor relationships and inspire philanthropic support. 

-- Christina Schechtman

#ADV