Saint Peter’s College raised nearly $17 million in cash and pledges in fiscal year 2010-2011, which ended June 30. Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s College, which was officially launched in late spring, has now reached in excess of $46 million. More than 6,500 donors are participating in the Campaign, which has already met 74 percent of its $62 million goal, including seven commitments of $1 million or more. An additional pledge by Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68 makes his $7.5 million commitment the largest philanthropic gift in College history.
“We are extremely grateful to our benefactors,” comments Saint Peter’s College President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. “Saint Peter’s has many alumni and friends who see that the College is an innovative, thriving, academically outstanding institution, and they want to be a part of our future.”
More than $6.8 million was raised in cash, a feat that had not occurred since the 1998-1999 fiscal year. This includes $2.7 million for the soon-to-be-built student center, nearly $1.9 million for The Saint Peter Fund, and $1.4 million that was allocated to various endowed funds. The Saint Peter Fund supports the College’s greatest needs and ensures that students will continue to have access to essential scholarships, innovative programs and ever-improving facilities.
The College also saw 14 additional donors join the President’s Council, which involves an investment of $1,000 or more, while nearly 350 new donors signified their belief in Saint Peter’s mission with a first-time gift. In addition, the senior class gift was more than twice the previous year and more graduating students participated in it. The College is especially gratified by this gift, which signals strong support from its newest alumni.
The support of the College’s donors has allowed for the razing of four structures along Glenwood Avenue which were used as campus offices. The demolition is required to make way for the six-story, nearly 90,000 square foot student center that will soon become Saint Peter’s signature facility.
“We have much to be proud of,” says Michael A. Fazio, vice president for advancement and external affairs. “But more work is needed. More believers are required. Building new facilities, supporting programs, and growing our endowment are critical. But more than that, campaigns are about growing the cadre of alumni and friends who believe in what we are doing here. I’m excited about these next few years.”