Bucknell Achieves Solid Level of Financial Support

2003-2004 Annual Report

Bucknell benefited from an exceptional show of financial support for the 2003–04 fiscal year. The university development office reports that alumni, parents, and friends gave the university $21.2 million in private gifts from July 1, 2003, to June 30, 2004, up from $18 million the year before.

The Annual Fund continued a steady climb over the past few years with $7.1 million in gifts. This included more than $3.7 million in unrestricted gifts — funds used for scholarships, academic programs, and daily operational needs — and $3.4 million designated for restricted purposes such as the Bison Club, Association for the Arts, and Engineering Fund. The university also recorded $14.1 million in capital gifts, including $8.1 million for endowment and $4.4 million for facilities.

Bucknell’s Parents Fund, considered one of the best in the nation, brought in $944,000 for current operations and achieved a parent participation rate of 45.8 percent. The alumni participation rate was 36 percent, something Bucknell is taking steps to improve in coming years.

Beyond financial gifts, Bucknell enjoys the support of more than 3,000 volunteers — class agents, class reporters, admissions volunteers, Bucknell club presidents and leaders, career development volunteers, engineering and communication advisory committees, Greek Council and Bison Club volunteers, and many more. They serve as important resources for Bucknell and its students and are a vital part of the university’s success.