West Virginia University has achieved a historic milestone in fundraising, raising an unprecedented $282.6 million during the 2024 fiscal year. This achievement supports vital programs focused on education, research, healthcare, and community outreach that benefit not only the university but the entire Mountain State.
The figure surpassed the previous record of $270.1 million achieved in 2021. A total of 20,350 donors contributed through 40,849 gifts to the WVU Foundation from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. Among these, 8,536 were alumni, underscoring their enduring commitment to the institution.
“Our supporters are truly remarkable,” said Cindi Roth, President and CEO of the WVU Foundation. “Even at a time of transition at the University, a fluctuating economy and increased prices for just about everything, our alumni and friends remained steadfast and true to their loyal generosity. These investments help our students, faculty, and staff achieve in ways that would not otherwise be possible. And they help our patients through the many services provided across WVU Medicine. I want to thank our donors for once again stepping up.”
WVU President Gordon Gee highlighted the impact of these donations, stating, “Thanks to the generous support of so many, West Virginia University continues to offer a high-quality education at an affordable price. And as we look to the future, we will be even better positioned to deliver on our land-grant mission of providing world-class education, research, and health care while serving as the state’s best partner to create a thriving economy that improves life for all.”
The success of the Foundation’s fundraising efforts was bolstered by 36 contributions of $1 million or more. Noteworthy gifts include a $50 million donation from the Hazel Ruby McQuain Charitable Trust to aid in constructing a new comprehensive cancer hospital at the WVU Cancer Institute, $7 million from the Hardy family and Nemacolin Resort for the Hospitality and Tourism Management program in the John Chambers College of Business and Economics, and $4 million from Antero Resources for the Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering programs in the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources.
Additionally, the seventh WVU Day of Giving, held on March 20, gathered a record $30.4 million through more than 8,500 contributions.
“I couldn’t be more pleased with our overall fundraising efforts,” B.J. Davisson, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer for the Foundation, remarked. “In the midst of many changes at the University, our donors remained undeterred and unwavering. Mountaineer Nation understands the University’s land-grant mission to help the state and recognizes that private support makes West Virginia a better place.”
Established in 1954, the WVU Foundation is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to generating, receiving, and administering private gifts for the well-being of the University. Those interested in contributing can visit give.wvu.edu or contact a development officer by calling 304-284-4000 or 800-847-3856. More information about the Foundation and its mission can be found at www.wvuf.org.
