WVU Foundation raises record $282M to benefit University students, programs and more

The WVU Foundation raised a record $282.6 million in fiscal year 2024 donated by the University community to support education, research, patient care and programming, breaking a previous fundraising record of $270.1 million set in 2021. (WVU Graphic)

West Virginia University alumni and friends contributed a record $282.6 million during fiscal year 2024 to support high-quality education, meaningful research, world-class patient care and outreach programs that benefit the Mountain State and beyond.

Story by Bill Nevin, Associate Vice President, Communications and Donor Engagement WVU Foundation

Photos by WVU Foundation

Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

The WVU Foundation’s remarkable year in fundraising trumps the previous record — $270.1 million, set in fiscal year 2021 — and reflects the overwhelming spirit of generosity that often brings the University community together. Records show 20,350 donors made 40,849 gifts to WVU from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. Alumni comprised 8,536 of those donors.

“Our supporters are truly remarkable,” WVU Foundation President and CEO Cindi Roth said. “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 said, “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 Foundation’s FY24 fundraising efforts were buoyed by 36 gifts of $1 million or more.  Those included a $50 million donation from the Hazel Ruby McQuain Charitable Trust to help the WVU Cancer Institute build a new comprehensive cancer hospital; $7 million from the Hardy family and Nemacolin Resort to benefit the Hospitality and Tourism Management program in the WVU John Chambers College of Business and Economics; and $4 million from Antero Resources to support the Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering programs at the WVU Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources.  

Additionally, the seventh WVU Day of Giving held on March 20 raised a record $30.4 million from more than 8,500 gifts.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with our overall fundraising efforts,” B.J. Davisson, executive vice president and chief development officer for the Foundation, said. “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.”

Chartered in 1954, the WVU Foundation is a private nonprofit organization that generates, receives and administers private gifts for the benefit of the University. If you are interested in supporting WVU with a gift, the easiest way to do so is online at give.wvu.edu. You can also speak with a development officer by calling 304-284-4000 or 800-847-3856. To learn more about the WVU Foundation and its mission for the University, visit www.wvuf.org.

---