Henderson surpasses fundraising goal

Henderson State University surpassed its fundraising goal of $2.2 million and recorded the highest number of alumni donors for the 2018-2019 fiscal year that ended June 30.

The Henderson State University Foundation received $2,278,580 from 3,255 donations in 2019. The last time fundraising surpassed $2 million was in 2001 when the single-largest donor gift was made to support construction of the Formby Athletic Center.

Henderson’s endowment is at $12.2 million and provides nearly half a million each year in scholarship and programmatic support to the university.

Top gifts for the year included two endowment gifts to support scholarships for students studying history, support for the nursing program and athletics support.

“A strong endowment is a sign of a strong university, so we will be asking donors to consider providing perpetual support for scholarships and academic programs,” said Jennifer Boyett, vice president for University Advancement. “Growing the endowment is important for the future of Henderson State.”

Henderson also reported an all-time high number of alumni donors. The initial goal was to surpass 823 alumni donors, which set a high in 2017. That goal was achieved in early May 2019 and continued to grow to 1,043 by June 30 — a 27 percent increase in the all-time high.

“I am encouraged by the number of alumni who renewed their support this past year and even more delighted by the number of first-time donors who made gifts,” Boyett said. “The Reddie Spirit is strong among our alumni, and the gifts they have entrusted to Henderson through the Foundation will benefit the students and the campus for generations to come.”

Financial support of Henderson is a vital part of meeting the needs of the university’s students and programs each year. To make a gift, go to hsu.edu/give.