Perspectives on Giving
From the vice chancellor for university advancement
Darrell C. Byers
On giving in an uncertain economy:
One reason for hope comes from what we know about giving in general. Whether in market downturns or not, philanthropic giving has grown every year since 1967, when Giving USA began to track statistics.
The media often focus on negative stories, yet data show repeatedly that donors continue to give even in a challenging economic climate, and that nonprofit organizations can successfully raise funds.
What’s most critical is that we present a compelling case for support—and that flows very naturally from our mission. Some things change, like the economy. Some things don’t, like the impact one person can have in transforming lives through a gift to UMass Boston.
On fundraising priorities for 2009:
Scholarships and support for faculty development remain paramount for us. Our initiative to endow the Michael E. Haynes Distinguished Professorship in Urban Studies was auspiciously kicked off with a gala on November 7. We are thrilled that this chair, housed at the McCormack School, will both honor and continue the Dr. Haynes’s five decades of advocacy for at-risk Boston youth.
The Urban Scholars Program marks its 25th anniversary this spring, and our University Gala on May 2, 2009, will be dedicated to helping this program, which develops the talent of the city’s youth, realize new accomplishments.
On strides in university advancement:
This year we celebrated two special firsts this past fall: the establishment of the Founders Circle and the Chancellor’s Council. The first society honors cumulative philanthropy of $100,000 or more; the second focuses on annual giving at the $1,000-plus level.
The momentum these socieities have created has been phenomenal. Our Founders Circle wall now graces the Campus Center on the plaza level, and we are so pleased that we can show the university’s gratitude in this public way.
The video guests saw that night, You’ve Changed Our World, showcased the role of philanthropy at UMass Boston in transforming both lives and society.
We are deeply grateful for the generous participation in these societies, which are helping our university achieve its greatest aspirations.
