(COLUMBIA, SC) The office of advancement has announced that the 2003-2004 Columbia College Loyalty Fund totaled over $980,000—an increase of $67,000 from last fiscal year. The average gift committed by alumnae to the Loyalty Fund increased by $29.79, to a total of $123.34. However, alumnae participation dipped this year to 24 percent, versus 30 percent last year.
“As we begin the College’s sesquicentennial celebration this academic year, it is encouraging to see alumnae giving more generously,” said Courtney Neil, former director of annual giving and donor relations. “Many thanks to the alumnae, parents and friends who gave so wonderfully this year to this venerable institution. Our students truly are the beneficiaries of your financial support.”
The Loyalty Fund helps provide unrestricted support for many necessities, including the purchase of library books, computer systems, specialized science equipment, and the all-important student scholarships. Without the Loyalty Fund, it would take an additional $20 million each year in endowment dollars to provide the same amount of support for Columbia College.
