Updates From Institutional Advancement

Philanthropy has long been a driving force behind the success and growth of the College of Charleston. Thanks to donor support, in FY24 the College achieved the largest fundraising year in its 254-year history, securing an unprecedented $27 million in gifts and commitments. This remarkable accomplishment reflects the generosity of donors whose contributions continue to enhance student opportunities, academic resources and the overall campus experience. 

“Enhancing and investing in our culture of engagement and philanthropy is just the beginning,” says Daniel H. Frezza, chief advancement officer. “With the incredible support of our alumni, parents, friends and partners, we are setting the stage for an even brighter future – one where generosity fuels audacious new opportunities across campus.”  

In FY24, the College achieved a record-breaking $1,397,852 in unrestricted funds, allowing for greater flexibility in addressing its most pressing needs. Privately funded scholarships saw a remarkable increase of $11,469,492, with 28 new endowed and restricted scholarships, bringing the total number of active scholarships to approximately 620. Additionally, seven donors contributed seven-figure gifts, and corporations and foundations collectively gave $4,150,310 in support of the College’s mission. 

These achievements are made possible by the dedicated efforts of not only our generous donors but our advancement team, which includes Advancement Services; Corporate and Foundation Relations; Annual, Major, Principal and Planned Giving; Financial Services; Property Management; Alumni Affairs; and University Events, Advancement Communications and Donor Relations. 

In 2025, the Division of Institutional Advancement will continue to enhance the culture of engagement and philanthropy at the College, launching new initiatives and continuing existing programs designed to elevate the College of Charleston experience. These efforts will include:

• Holding the sixth annual CofC Day, with a theme of “Level Up Your Impact,” the 2025 event will kick off at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19, and continue through 10 p.m. on Thursday March 20. The 29.5-hour (totaling 1,770 minutes) effort will create myriad opportunities for all members of the university community to give back and engage. On CofC Day, in addition to an event in the Cistern Yard, CofC Clubs will host parties ranging from London to Los Angeles for alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff, family and friends. 
• Continuing to foster parent giving through the Parent Leadership Society, which is entering its second year and supports events and activities that enhance the College experience for students and families. 
• Adding regional gift officers in order to cultivate relationships in areas with a large congregation of alumni, parents, friends and partners.  
• Raising more funds targeted to the recruitment of renowned faculty, department programs, faculty-led research and more. 
• Increasing the number of scholarships available to students to attract and retain students of distinction, including student-athletes. 
• Hosting the inaugural Volunteer Leadership Summit, which will serve as a catalyst for deepening connections within the College’s volunteer leadership community, on May 2.
• Getting ready to kick off Spring Alumni Weekend, May 2-3. The 1770 Society Donor event, honoring those who have contributed $1,000 or more to the College in the past year, will be held on the evening of May 2. The festivities will continue into Saturday, May 3, and will culminate with A Charleston Affair, a celebration welcoming new graduates into the College’s alumni family. 
• Holding Homecoming weekend November 13-14, featuring the men’s basketball game against Florida Atlantic. The weekend will include the second annual Donor Appreciation Gala with a pinning ceremony for newly inducted members of the President’s Society, as well as spirited athletic contests, lively reunions, nostalgic tours and more.  

As the College of Charleston moves forward, the impact of philanthropy will continue to shape its future. With strategic investments in scholarships, research and institutional growth, donor contributions are ensuring that the College remains a place of academic excellence and opportunity for generations to come. 

The record-breaking success of FY24 sets the stage for even greater achievements in the coming years. As the College honors donor intentions and carefully stewards these resources, the Division of Institutional Advancement remains committed to making a difference in FY25 and beyond. 

“We are deeply grateful to all who have supported the College of Charleston over the years,” says Frezza. “The College’s donors have made a lasting impact, particularly those who answered the call in FY24 and FY25 to assist in bolstering our culture of philanthropy. Together, we are shaping the College and setting a firm foundation of excellence for generations to come.”