FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — At the halfway point of the 2008 fiscal year on Dec. 31, 2007, the University of Arkansas had raised $48.9 million of its $87 million goal. This total accounts for gifts received between July 1, 2007, and the end of the 2007 calendar year and excludes pledges. The more than 19,000 gifts received thus far put the university at 56 percent of the annual fundraising goal.

“We are very pleased with the progress and we are on track to meet the ambitious goal set for this fiscal year,” said Mark Power, executive director of university development. “Last year’s totals exceeded $100 million, and we are well on our way to another fantastic year of securing private gift support that is so critical to this institution.

“I’m grateful to the alumni and friends and the corporations and foundations who have contributed to our efforts already this year,” Power said. “I am extremely appreciative of the work of the individuals who raise money for current and future initiatives of the university. Our volunteers, including the Board of Advisors, generously give their time for the betterment of our university. New initiatives, such as the need-based scholarship program, Access Arkansas, depend on the generosity of benefactors to be successful. This university is grateful to have so many people who believe in its mission, and I am delighted to see such tremendous support continue year after year.”

During the same period last year, the University of Arkansas raised $52.8 million against its goal of $76.9 million. The 2008 fiscal year ends June 30.