The University of Arkansas raised more than $254.7 million in private gifts during fiscal year 2025, which ended June 30, according to a Thursday (Aug. 7) news release. It was the fourth-highest fundraising year in UA history.
The release shows fiscal 2025 ended as the most successful year in the university’s fundraising history outside of a major capital campaign year. The fiscal year total includes gifts of cash, gifts-in-kind, planned gifts and new pledges received from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.
This includes the $132.8 million raised for the UA’s Land of Opportunity Scholarship campaign, a three-year initiative to increase educational access for students from all 75 counties in Arkansas. The campaign is expected to strengthen connections between the university and businesses across the state. The $200 million campaign launched Nov. 12 with the announcement of a $100 million gift from Jane Hunt and Bryan Hunt on behalf of the J.B. and Johnelle Hunt family. Two-thirds of the campaign goal has been raised in less than a year.
Asked whether the Land of Opportunity Scholarship was a major campaign, a UA spokeswoman said it’s “not a comprehensive capital campaign.” It’s “a focused, high-priority fundraising initiative aligned with the 150 Forward Strategic Plan.”
According to the release, “this historic year of giving reflects the impact of the university’s 150 Forward Strategic Plan and highlights the strong alignment between philanthropic partners and the university’s long-term vision under the leadership of Chancellor Charles Robinson.”
“I am deeply grateful to our alumni and friends whose generosity made this milestone year possible,” said Chancellor Charles Robinson. “Their support is expanding opportunity for students and strengthening communities across Arkansas. We look forward to building on this tremendous momentum together in the years to come.”
The gifts established new endowed funds, supporting students, faculty, research, programs and campus priorities. The enduring resources help to attract talent, contribute to innovation and strengthen academic success. The gifts also made possible new student scholarships, awards and fellowships.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our alumni and friends,” said Scott Varady, vice chancellor for advancement. “Their vital support is both humbling and inspiring. We are profoundly grateful for their trust, partnership and the powerful impact they make possible.”
The UA continues to make progress in its 150 Forward Strategic Plan, “delivering an 86% first-year student retention rate and breaking the 70% six-year graduation rate threshold; reaching a new high in research conducted; and rolling out faculty support and recruitment efforts under the Employer of Choice pillar. The university’s annual economic impact to Arkansas has grown to a record $3 billion,” the release shows.
The next phase of the plan includes setting new targets of $500 million in research activity and an 80% graduation rate “to elevate student outcomes and continue to grow the university’s research enterprise,” according to the release. Donors will play a key role in bringing the vision to life.