The generosity of those who understand the importance of a strong state university system was evident again this year, as the foundation ended its fiscal year on June 30, 2009, with more than $128 million raised on behalf of the University of Nebraska. Despite a global recession, donors made it the second best year in the foundation’s 73-year history.

A majority of the gifts, 62.8 percent, came from individuals, while foundations, corporations and other organizations contributed 37.2 percent of all other donations. More than 99 percent of all gifts were directed by donors to a specific program or campus.

During the same period, $102.8 million was transferred to the University of Nebraska’s four campuses, also marking the second best year ever. This support, as designated by donors, included $17.7 million for student scholarships which provided more than 10,000 scholarship awards; $29.2 million for academic support; $4.3 million for research; $5.3 million for faculty support; $1.7 million for museums, libraries and fine arts; and just under $900,000 for alumni associations and other support.

“Given the recent recession, we are especially amazed by the generosity of donors, no matter the amount they’re able to give or the area they enjoy helping,” said President Clarence Castner. “We strongly believe their passion for the university is because they understand the opportunities a premier education and research institution can offer to the state’s people and to the economy.”

Among the designated gifts for the fiscal year were two of the largest scholarship bequests ever given: Blacksmith Walter Schmitt of Gresham, Neb., designated $3.5 million for scholarships across NU, and Nebraska natives Amos and Doris Greenamyre designated $1.5 million for scholarships to UNK students.

While proud of the financial support received for the university and optimistic about the future, the foundation was not unscathed by the tough financial climate. The market value of the foundation’s assets for the fiscal year totaled $1.37 billion, down $228.7 million from the previous year. The endowment managed by the foundation totaled $964.9 million, and the total return on the endowment was -21.3 percent for the year. Although this is a disappointing return, the percentage loss is in line with other endowments nationwide.