External support, a combination of philanthropic support and
grants and contracts revenue, reached nearly $1.3 billion in
2003-2004. This external support represents more than $3,000 per student.
The CSU received private philanthropic support comparable to 11
percent of the general fund allocation from the state of California.
Ninety-seven percent of all charitable gifts were designated by
donors to support specific university and student needs.
Giving from individuals surpassed $108 million, with over $85
million contributed by friends of the university. Alumni provided
over $20 million in support.
More than 113,000 alumni have joined alumni associations as
members. These association members contributed 40 percent of all
charitable gifts received from alumni.
The average cost to raise one dollar in the CSU system is 16 cents.
For every dollar invested in CSU fundraising programs, the average
return on investment is $525.
