Fundraising results signal continued strength

Despite a global economic downturn, Harvard University raised $602 million through fundraising efforts in fiscal year 2009.  These results represent an 8 percent decline from the $651 million that Harvard raised in fiscal year 2008, but are still the third-highest fundraising total in Harvard history (figures not adjusted for inflation).

Harvard’s largest School, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS), showed positive fundraising signs in fiscal year 2009.  The FAS raised $188 million, a 7 percent increase from the $176 million raised in fiscal year 2008.

During the past year, the FAS refocused its fundraising efforts on current use, unrestricted giving. Harvard alumni and friends responded, providing $33 million in current use, unrestricted gifts — a 38 percent increase from the $24 million donated the previous fiscal year.

“Highlights this year, in addition to the FAS results, include particularly strong receipts for the Graduate School of Education and the Graduate School of Design,” said Tamara Elliott Rogers, vice president for alumni affairs and development.

“In the context of the economic turmoil in the markets, Harvard alumni and friends have demonstrated tremendous support for the extraordinary teaching, learning, and research that go on every day across the University, and we are most grateful,” she added.