This past year was York's best year of fundraising ever, with donors contributing $18.3 million towards student scholarships and bursaries, academic excellence, research and capital infrastructure. In the past two years, not only have gifts to all areas of the University increased by 70 per cent, but the number of donors has also increased by 24 per cent.
In celebration of private support, and to give thanks and recognition to York donors, the York University Foundation recently published its second annual "Report to Donors". The report, which was launched at a recent York University Foundation Board of Directors meeting, explores the reasons various benefactors make gifts to York and how all of them share a strong commitment to the University and its mission.
Right: With York Lions mascots, Tim Price (left), Chair of the York University Foundation Board of Directors, and Marshall Cohen, Chair of the York University Board of Governors, prepare to cut a celebration cake
Of particular note in the report is the generosity of York faculty, staff and retirees. This year, more than 550 present and past employees made gifts totaling more than $665,000, representing an impressive 21 per cent increase over last year's achievement.
The report also celebrates the $3.7 million raised for student support this year, for a total of $5.9 million after government matching. There is also story about the participation by York's Board of Governors in the Family Campaign, a fundraising initiative that generated $400,000 for all areas of the University.
Left: Flanked by the York Lions are Honey Sherman (left) and Max Gotlieb, both members of the York University Foundation Board of Directors
In addition, the York University Foundation has created the first "Annual Giving Report to Donors", which is available exclusively on the foundation’s Web site. Annual giving programs provide support for some of the University's most important priorities, including student financial aid and new and renovated buildings.
To read more about the gifts of the past year in the York University Foundation's "2004 Report to Donors" and the first-ever "Annual Giving Report to Donors", visit the York University Foundation Web site.