Columbus State University alumni and friends gave more than $5.9 million to the university during its 2023-24 fundraising year, according to newly compiled figures that show significant, steady donor support over the past three years. The university celebrated many of its donors on Sept. 19 during a “Celebration of Support” dinner at its Frank G. Lumpkin Jr. Center. The event highlighted the private support from donors that expand the quality of student experiences in the classroom and the availability of scholarships to fund their educational experiences, such as study abroad trips. “The future is so bright here at Columbus State,” President Stuart Rayfield told the crowd. “We have an amazing group of people on this campus who are working day in and day out to support students. But we also have a community—many of you sitting in this room—working every day to support this university. “We are at a pivotal moment in this state, and at a pivotal moment for higher education,” she continued, referencing local and statewide workforce needs. “This is an opportunity for our community that has built a foundation of entrepreneurship and innovation and the attitude of ‘Why not Columbus State?’” Rocky Kettering, CFRE, vice president for university advancement and executive director of the CSU Foundation, pointed out that the university’s most loyal donors are also excited about the future. Last year, about $4 million was directed to the colleges, including the Honors College. Giving to CSU athletics reached a three-year high with more than $1.1 million raised. Imbedded into those totals is more than $1.7 million that went directly to student scholarships. “The university has seen a lot of transition over the last few years, but the support from our community has not wavered,” Kettering said. “With President Stuart Rayfield on board and a newly adopted strategic plan in place, we are poised to make great strides this year in advancing the future of CSU and ensuring success for our students.”
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