The University of Utah’s accomplishments are vast—and philanthropy plays a key role in these achievements. Student housing. Research labs. Athletics facilities. Scholarships. There is not one area of campus that philanthropy does not reach. Advancement work is at the core of helping the U achieve its goal of becoming a top public university, making unsurpassed societal impact—because philanthropy is impact.
In July, University Advancement announced a milestone achievement, securing its place among top public universities in the nation: The department raised $518.49 million for the U during the 2025 fiscal year—a 53% increase from the previous year. This milestone elevates the U into the ranks of powerhouse institutions such as The Ohio State University, Penn State University, the University of Wisconsin and the University of Nebraska—affirming our place among the nation’s most influential leaders.
At the heart of every achievement at the U is the extraordinary generosity of donors. Their vision and commitment—championed through the dedicated efforts of University Advancement—do more than fund progress; they ignite possibility. Every gift is a powerful statement of belief in what we can accomplish together. Their partnership is not just support—it is the driving force that propels the U to lead boldly, dream bigger and shape a future that will inspire generations.
“This year, we didn’t just hit a milestone. We shattered it,” said Heidi Woodbury, vice president for University Advancement. “I am so proud of our team’s work. Behind every dollar of that $518.49 million is their work, care and belief that what we do matters. Together, in partnership with our campus community and generous donors, we are building a university that dares to reach further for its students, its patients and the communities we serve.”
University Advancement secured the $75 million naming gift to the Eccles Health Campus and Eccles Hospital, generously given through the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation. Additionally, fundraising work culminated in the $25 million gift announcement made in May by the Lassonde Family Foundation to advance student entrepreneurship and the $25 million Marriott Family Gift Announcement in April to create the J.W. Marriott, Jr. Institute at the University of Utah to transform how students across disciplines develop leadership skills rooted in hospitality principles.
Each year, $39 million in scholarship funding is awarded to students from private donors. From first-year students to graduate students, scholarship and fellowship funding help the university recruit the best and brightest students around the world and ensure that a University of Utah degree remains affordable and accessible for students from all walks of life.
During the 2025 fiscal year, $63 million in endowment funds were distributed across campus, which includes $16 million in chair and research funds. Endowments are the living legacy of the belief in the transformative power of education and investing in its future—sustaining the discovery, creativity and service that shape every corner of campus.
“What the University of Utah Advancement team has accomplished is nothing short of incredible,” said Martin Grenzebach, partner at Huron Consulting Group, a global leader in fundraising strategy and philanthropy services. “Generosity is dependent on creating a shared connection with donors through authenticity and a clear vision for the institution. University Advancement’s achievement demonstrates a strong team unified in their commitment to making an impact for students, the local community and beyond.”
The U’s advancement team aims to carry this momentum forward to expand its reach and make an unsurpassed societal impact.