“We’re number two!” is not usually grounds for cheering, but it all depends on the competition. The latest figures on private giving to universities show that the 91̽»¨ ranked second in the country among public universities last year.
For the past decade, the 91̽»¨ has ranked in the top five public institutions in private support, but this is the first time it has ranked as high as second.
The 91̽»¨received $154.6 million in private gifts and grants during the 1995-96 fiscal year. Among public institutions, only the University of Wisconsin Madison received more private support — $186.7 million — according to figures released by the Council for Aid to Education.
Private institutions topped the council’s list for 1995-96: Stanford ranked first with $313 million and Harvard ranked second with $309 million. But even compared to private institutions the 91̽»¨did well, said Marilyn Dunn, vice president for development. The 91̽»¨ranked ninth among all public and private universities.
In 1995-96, the 91̽»¨ received $85 million in gifts, including $22 million from Bill and Melinda Gates. It received $69.5 million in grants from non-governmental sources.
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For more information: Marilyn Dunn, (206) 543-2565
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