The ISU Foundation has seen a substantial increase in private donations since last year.

Support for students from the foundation increased 34 percent due to the increase in private donations received by the foundation.

Between July 1, 2003 and June 30, 2004, the foundation made a gift of $13.3 million to Iowa State for student support. During the previous year, the foundation gave $9.9 million.

“This makes a great impact when tuition and fees went up over the past few years,” said Jason Menke, assistant director of communications at the ISU Foundation. “The rise in donations touches everyone associated with Iowa State in one way or another.”

The foundation reported a 62 percent increase in private support during the fiscal year. A total of $63.2 million in support was committed by the record number of more than 53,000 donors.

Private funds from the foundation are given to ISU students, faculty, facilities and programs. This support completed many projects around campus, including the newly dedicated Gerdin Business Building and four other buildings. These projects were partially or completely funded with the private donations given in previous years.

Funds also support endowed faculty positions and are used to further research and teaching methods.

Donations have increased for a number of reasons.

“The economy in general has gotten better,” said Warren Madden, vice president for business and finance. “The projects we’re raising money for have attracted a lot of donors, and this college has quality programs, staff and students.”

Most donations — about 97 percent — are designated for a specific purpose by the donor, Madden said.

The remaining 3 percent are unrestricted, and ISU President Gregory Geoffroy typically decides how the funds are used.