ODU Passes Halfway Mark in $250 Million Fundraising Initiative
January 23, 2019
Old Dominion University is more than halfway toward its fundraising goal of $250 million, according to Alonzo Brandon, vice president for university advancement,.
University President John R. Broderick announced a $200 million fundraising initiative during his 2017 State of the University address. $100 million was designated for scholarship support with the remainder going toward athletics, academic enhancements, student success and special projects.
"Several months into it we were making great progress," Brandon said. "Our steering committee members and University leadership raised the goal to $250 million and included a 'special projects' category to encompass things like the Barry Art Museum."
"In all we have raised $130 million," he said. "And the Old Dominion Athletic Foundation has raised $30 million of its $40 million goal."
A dozen community volunteers, including co-chairs Bruce Bradley and Dick Barry, serve on the steering committee to help connect with local leaders.
About 40 staff work in development, raising money for the University, including for scholarships, according to Dan Genard, associate vice president for advancement.
"Our office takes securing funds for the University very seriously," Genard said. "We think it's very important to raise money that allows those students to come here, stay here and achieve their goals."
President Broderick said the fundraising efforts will allow the school to continue to serve all promising students.
"Old Dominion University is committed to providing a solid, affordable education to every qualified student who wants one," he said. "Our success in this initiative will allow us to reach more students with need- and merit-based scholarships."
Genard said his office couldn't do it alone. He praised the Old Dominion community for its support.
"The whole University has rallied around this," he said. "The President has made it his priority along with the Board of Visitors, the deans, athletic director, coaches and volunteers. All have given their time and energy to help raise money."
