The University of Arkansas raised more than $254.7 million in private gift support during fiscal year 2025, marking one of the highest fundraising years in institutional history and propelling the university’s Land of Opportunity Scholarship initiative past $132.8 million toward its $200 million goal.

This historic year of giving reflects the impact of the university’s 150 Forward Strategic Plan and highlights the strong alignment between philanthropic partners and the university’s long-term vision under the leadership of Chancellor Charles Robinson.

Fiscal year 2025 concluded as the most successful year in the university’s fundraising history outside of a major capital campaign year. It also marks the fourth highest fundraising year in University of Arkansas history.

“I am deeply grateful to our alumni and friends whose generosity made this milestone year possible," said Chancellor Charles Robinson. "Their support is expanding opportunity for students and strengthening communities across Arkansas. We look forward to building on this tremendous momentum together in the years to come."

The $254.7 million raised reflects donor-centric interest and investment in university priorities, and a resounding show of support for Arkansas students  through the Land of Opportunity Scholarship initiative. The fiscal year total includes gifts of cash, gifts-in-kind, planned gifts and new pledges received from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.

Gifts provided funding for the establishment of new endowed funds, creating sustainable funding for students, faculty, research, programs and campus priorities. These enduring resources help attract top talent, spark innovation and strengthen academic success. Benefactors also made possible new student scholarships, awards and fellowships. Such support reduces financial barriers and creates pathways to graduation and positive post-graduation outcomes.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our alumni and friends. Their vital support is both humbling and inspiring,” said Scott Varady, vice chancellor for advancement. “We are profoundly grateful for their trust, partnership and the powerful impact they make possible.”

Launched to expand educational access, degree completion, career-building experiences, and workforce development for students across all 75 counties in Arkansas, the Land of Opportunity Scholarship campaign is a bold, focused initiative that reflects the university’s core mission as a land-grant institution. This effort concentrates on a singular but transformative goal and fosters collaboration between the university and businesses throughout the state.

The initiative saw exceptional engagement in the fiscal year including a trailblazing $100 million planned gift from Jane Hunt and Bryan Hunt on behalf of the J.B. and Johnelle Hunt family. Their visionary investment set the tone and inspired a wave of giving to expand access and successful outcomes for high-potential Arkansas students who face significant financial hardships. The Land of Opportunity Scholarship initiative has now reached 66% of its goal in just under one year.

The U of A continues to make measurable progress across the three pillars of its 150 Forward Strategic Plan, delivering an 86% first-year student retention rate and breaking the 70% six-year graduation rate threshold; reaching a new high in research conducted; and rolling out faculty support and recruitment efforts under the Employer of Choice pillar. The university’s annual economic impact to Arkansas has grown to a record $3 billion. 

As part of the next phase of the strategic plan, the university is reaching higher by setting new targets of $500 million in research activity and an 80% graduation rate to elevate student outcomes and continue to grow the university’s research enterprise. Through philanthropic support, donors are key partners in bringing the university’s land-grant mission and strategic vision to life, opening new doors for students and creating meaningful impact.

About University Advancement: University Advancement advances the mission of the University of Arkansas by raising private gift support from alumni, friends, parents, foundations, corporations, and other institutional supporters. Working in philanthropic partnership with academic leaders and volunteers, Advancement team members are determined to advance the people, work, and impact of the greater whole at the University of Arkansas.

About the University of Arkansas: As Arkansas' flagship institution, the U of A provides an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs. Founded in 1871, the U of A contributes more than $3 billion annually to Arkansas’ economy  through the teaching of new knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship and job development, discovery through research and creative activity while also providing training for professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the U of A among the few U.S. colleges and universities with the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the U of A among the top public universities in the nation. See how the U of A works to build a better world at Arkansas Research and Economic Development News.