By Blake Haas

NORMAL – On the heels of a $5 million donation, Illinois State University is on pace to crack over $30 million raised in the past fiscal year.

Despite economic conditions, Pat Vickerman, ISU Vice President for University Advancement, reports strong fundraising efforts.

“We have about three weeks left in our fiscal year, and we are already over the $30 million mark for this year, which represents the third-best year ever in our 165-year history at the university,” he said on the Afternoon Show that airs from 4 – 6 p.m.

Right now, things are very strong, but we’re also very mindful of the markets, inflation, consumer confidence, and the impact that has on our alumni and the community.”

Earlier this week, the University announced a $5 million commitment for the College of Education and University High School.

“While we are excited to be where we are today, we’re very mindful that not everyone is in a position to give a $5 million or make seven-figure or six-figure commitments, and we want to be sensitive to some of the challenges that are out there. But, right now, our total fundraising productivity is very strong for this fiscal year,” Vickerman added.

According to Vickerman, fundraising efforts are helping the college pursue new majors like the College of Engineering.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].