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Miami University raises millions for student scholarships

Miami University raised nearly $100 million in the 2022 fiscal year, and almost half of it will go toward student scholarships.

The Division of University Advancement shattered previous fundraising records after raising $98.7 million from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022. The division surpassed its initial goal of $75 million in April.

Brad Bundy, vice president for University Advancement, accepted the position in mid-April, breaking Miami records during his first 90 days. The university passed its goal weeks after he started and raised another $20 million through June.

For Bundy, this accomplishment was more than just financial.

“My wife and I have sent four kids to Miami, so I’ve watched firsthand the experience that they achieved and the opportunities that has afforded them,” Bundy said. “I feel very good and very blessed every single day to basically oversee a piece of the university that makes possible incredible opportunities for people that otherwise would not have [them].”

Of the nearly $100 million, $45.5 million consisted of cash donations, and $46.8 million will fund scholarships for students. Donations will also be used for academic support and capital projects, such as the construction of a new academic building.

The amount of scholarship fundraising resonated with Jessica Rivinius, interim vice president for university communications. 

“I think this shows how scholarship support is a priority, and the university is committed to making a Miami education accessible for more students,” Rivinius wrote in an email to The Miami Student.

Miami relies upon alumni support, as opposed to corporate and foundation support. After the isolation of the pandemic, Bundy said he feared the alumni relationship was strained. However, support actually grew over the past two years. 

“I rarely run into a Miami alumnus that did not have an amazing experience here,” Bundy said. “When you are working with that kind of satisfied consumer base, in many ways they appreciate and understand how important it is that they give back so other students can experience the same type of educational opportunities that they had.”

The record-breaking year was topped with one of the largest gifts in the university’s history, which will be announced this fall along with the university advancement’s comprehensive campaign for the 2023 fiscal year. 

“We are hopeful that our record-breaking year will help build momentum as the university heads toward its most ambitious fundraising campaign yet,” Rivinius wrote.

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