(JACKSON, Miss.) – Jackson State University alumni surprised JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers when they presented her with a record $2.56 million in cash and pledges during the university’s inauguration events in March.
“Along with our students, our alumni are the best ambassadors Jackson State University has,” Meyers said. “When they show such strong support for their university, it fosters a culture of giving.”
The record contributions were the result of JSU’s “Alumni Challenge,” which launched just six months ago. The campaign aimed to raise at least $1 million from JSU graduates before Meyers’ March 2012 inauguration. To date, alums have contributed $2,561,093 in cash and pledges.
The JSU National Alumni Association took the lead in fundraising efforts.
“Our alumni love their school and are proud of all that is happening at Jackson State,” said alumni association president Terry L. Woodard. “This year they stepped up as never before to show how much they support Jackson State and its students.”
Two alums – JSU graduate Cortez Bryant and an anonymous donor – each made a contribution of $500,000 in gifts and pledges.
Though alumni have already made record donations this year, the fiscal year is still not over, said David Hoard, JSU’s vice president for Institutional Advancement.
“We’re hoping to get to $3 million before the end of June,” Hoard said. “That will really build momentum for next year. Our alumni have proven they want to help the next generation of students.”