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YSU fundraising hits record high
By Denise Dick
Youngstown
Youngstown State University’s fundraising hit a record high $10.3 million this year, nearly $4 million more than the previous record.
President Cynthia E. Anderson, who retires Sunday, called the amount a milestone realized through the generosity of alumni, corporations, foundations and friends of the university.
“It demonstrates the highest level of confidence in YSU,” she said.
The record amount is for the fiscal year that ends Sunday. The previous $6.4 million record dates to fiscal year 2007-08.
“We are overwhelmed by the tremendous out- pouring of philanthropic support this year,” Anderson said.
R. Scott Evans, vice president for university advancement, said one reason for the generosity is the admiration and respect for Anderson.
The amount raised is three times what was raised last year.
About 4,580 of the donors have provided support to YSU since last July, and most of the money will be received over a period of years.
About 54 percent of the money received this year was directed by donors to scholarships; 12 percent for capital improvements; and colleges, academic programs, athletics and other initiatives received the remaining 34 percent.
The top seven gifts:
$1.375 million from E. Wayne Cliffe for multiple programs, most benefiting the College of Creative Arts and Communication.
$1.2 million from the James and Coralie Centofanti Charitable Foundation to establish a new center for health and welfare of vulnerable populations and for the YSU Veterans Resource Center.
$1.1 million from James and Patricia Hodgson for scholarships.
$1 million from Walter and Mary Healey for campus beautification.
$800,000 from an anonymous donor for scholarships.
$525,000 from Katherine and Andrew Kartalis for scholarships and the Veterans Resource Center.
$500,000 from Farmers National Bank to establish the Farmers National Bank Field at the new sports complex west of Fifth Avenue.