Loras College saw its best cash fundraising year in its 179-year history during this past fiscal year ending on May 31, 2018. More than 8,000 alumni, parents and friends donated nearly $12.4 million surpassing the prior record by $3.3 million.
The funds raised were far-reaching. Numerous initiatives were supported to strengthen academic services, career programming and student success. Twelve new scholarships were created to assist students financially. Contributions also supported capital improvements such as renovating Keane Hall and the Rock Bowl.
“I applaud our alumni and friends for making significant investments in our students, campus community, and many curricular and co-curricular offerings,” Jim Collins (’84), president of Loras College, said.
Loras’ top gift for the year was an estate gift just over $3.2 million received from the late Rev. William Wilkie to support six different financial aid programs and awards. The gift will supplement the William E. Wilke Fund to bring the total endowment to more than $3.5 million. Wilkie is a 1950 graduate of Loras College and professor emeritus of history.
“The impact of giving is felt throughout campus. Students and faculty are being granted opportunities and resources that were recently unavailable. I am thrilled to watch these gifts transform the College for years to come.” said Donna Heald Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs.
The financial commitments also align with Loras College’s enhancements across many fronts, including the launch of the Francis J. Noonan School of Business and its finance lab, the addition of a new minor in financial planning and wealth management, introduction of a postbaccalaureate premedical program, and, in partnership with the Dubuque Racing Association, the opening a new innovation laboratory.
Click the button below to view a letter from Mike Doyle (’91), vice president for institutional advancement & treasurer of Loras College, on this year’s successes.
