On June 30, Clemson University concluded another extraordinary fiscal year marked by record-breaking levels of philanthropic generosity in academics and athletics.
With an overwhelming outpouring of support from donors, the University raised an astounding $216,909,099 during fiscal year 2023, surpassing all previous fundraising achievements. A total of 37,857 donors contributed 101,674 gifts to compose the $216 million amount.
This year’s figure surpasses 2022’s total of $210 million and encompasses a diverse range of contributions, including over $147 million in cash, pledges and gifts in kind and $21 million in planned gifts. More than $135 million came in through IPTAY alone. In all, there were 24 gifts of $1 million or more and more than $4 million in unrestricted dollars. Collectively, these generous donations will provide vital support for numerous initiatives.
This unprecedented level of giving will support the University’s robust pursuit of elevating the student experience, increasing research benchmarks and serving the state of South Carolina in new and stronger ways.
We are thrilled to announce a record-breaking year of giving and are proud of the Clemson Family’s continued commitment to excellence. Through the generosity of our donors, we will continue to meet the needs of our students and elevate the Clemson experience.
JIM CLEMENTS, CLEMSON UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT
Starting with a transformational $10 million Cornerstone gift from Mark ’83 and Kathryn Richardson, the Richardsons encouraged others to give by initiating a $4 million dollar gift match challenge that contributed a total of $8 million in general scholarship support.
In total, fiscal year 2023 gifts established 125 scholarships, fostering the educational pursuits of deserving students, and contributed to the creation of 87 endowments and four fellowships, ensuring resource sustainability and the pursuit of groundbreaking research that will impact future generations.
As the University looks to the future, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence, innovation and making a lasting impact in the lives of our students. This unparalleled level of philanthropic generosity will continue to elevate our University for the generations of today, tomorrow and forever. For this, we are eternally grateful.
BRIAN O’ROURKE, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVANCEMENT
With a record-breaking $135 million given to IPTAY, including a significant gift from Jim and Candace Brown, these generous donations have facilitated the development of multiple resources and propelled extensive expansions in athletic programs, serving IPTAY’s mission of supporting four major pillars: athletic facilities, athletic endowment, student-athlete experience and scholarship.
We are profoundly grateful for the unwavering support and trust placed in IPTAY by our generous donors who number over 22,000. Their contributions have an immeasurable impact on our 550 student-athletes, allowing us to provide transformative educational and athletic experiences that will create life-altering opportunities to mold their futures for sustained success.
DAVIS BABB, IPTAY CEO
Alumni involvement reached a participation rate of 17 percent, highlighting their strong commitment to their alma mater and the advancement of the mission. It is a testament to the belief in the power of education to shape lives and change communities. Through the vision and commitment of dedicated alumni, faculty, staff, parents, friends, partners and all donors, Clemson continues to foster an environment of innovation, intellectual curiosity and inclusivity.