SC State sees growth in philanthropic donations (2024)

South Carolina State University has achieved a landmark in its philanthropic endeavors, recording a significant increase in donations during fiscal year 2024.

Under the leadership of President Alexander Conyers, SC State has seen a 23.2% rise in total giving, amounting to $5,107,089 compared to $4,147,122 in the previous fiscal year.

“Our donors are crucial to our mission of educating students today and expanding SC State’s future impact across the region,” Conyers said. “Their generosity is evident across campus, from supporting student success and enhancing academic programs to the development of state-of-the-art learning facilities. Private giving transforms lives at SC State, and we deeply appreciate our donors’ loyal support.”

Highlights from SC States’ 2024 fundraising efforts include:

• Alumni giving: Increased by 26.4%, reflecting the strong bond and loyalty of SC State’s alumni community.

• SCSU National Alumni Association: Contributions surged by 100.9%, doubling the previous year’s support.

• Board of Trustees giving: Saw a remarkable 91.7% increase, highlighting the Board’s commitment to the university’s future.

• Corporate giving: Increased by 79.3%, demonstrating robust partnerships with the business community.

• Faculty and Staff giving: Increased by 35.6%, showing the dedication of those who work within the university.

• Friends giving: Grew by 59.3%, indicating growing external support and belief in SC State’s mission.

• Government giving: Achieved an impressive increase of 186.7%, underscoring the value and impact of public funding.

• Student giving: Grew by 11.1%, showcasing the rising involvement and philanthropy among the student body.

The average given per donor has significantly increased by 38.8%, from $1,291 in FY 2023 to $1,792 in FY 2024. This indicates a deepened commitment from the donors, reflecting their confidence in the university’s direction and leadership.

“The substantial increase in contributions across various donor categories underscores the collective effort and dedication of our community,” said Dr. John Michael Lee, SC State vice president for institutional advancement. “It is a clear indicator that SC State’s vision of growth, transformation, and innovation resonates with a diverse group of supporters who are invested in our success.”

Key contributions and initiatives

Standout contributions this year include significant gifts from the SC State National Alumni Association, Alumni Chapters, and individual alumni, bolstered by key campaigns such as Alumni Weekend 2024, Giving Tuesday, and the SC State Bus Initiative Campaign.

This support, which more than doubled the previous year’s donations, is set to fund scholarships, improve transportation, enhance student programs, and foster educational innovations across the university. With 2,023 alumni donors contributing a total of $3,179,463, the average given per donor was $1,571.

Corporate partnerships have played a pivotal role in this year’s fundraising success. With an increase of nearly 80% in corporate giving, SC State is poised to expand its academic programs, research capabilities, infrastructure, and community outreach programs.

For example, thanks to a $1 million grant from Dominion Energy, SC State is creating three new Bachelor of Science degree programs in computer engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.

Impact and goals

The funds raised this fiscal year will support several strategic initiatives and key projects, including enhancing the university’s academic programs, expanding student scholarships, improving transportation efficiency and reliability, and strengthening community engagement.

In line with its vision for growth, innovation, and transformation, SC State is set to embark on its first comprehensive capital campaign in its 127-year history. This historic effort will establish new benchmarks to meet future demands and propel SC State towards becoming South Carolina’s best-in-class, land-grant, R2 doctoral/research university.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our donors, whose support is vital to our mission,” Lee said. “Their contributions are not just financial; they are investments in the future leaders and innovators who will emerge from SC State.”

As SC State looks forward to the next fiscal year, the focus remains on building upon this momentum and continuing to engage with its community of supporters. The administration is committed to driving the university towards greater achievements and ensuring that every gift makes a tangible impact on students’ lives and the broader community.