The University of Colorado Denver reached an extraordinary milestone this summer: the most successful fundraising year in campus history. During the 2024–25 fiscal year, which ended June 30, our generous donor community committed $26.4 million in philanthropic support. Over the previous three years, the campus averaged just under $13 million in giving annually, making this past year’s surge in giving even more exceptional.

So much more than a number, though, this achievement is a testament to the deep and growing commitment of CU Denver’s philanthropic partners to invest in student success, faculty excellence, and a future defined by innovation and opportunity. On behalf of the entire university, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the more than 4,300 generous individuals, corporations, and foundations who made gifts last year. Your support not only helps us reach new heights—it transforms lives.

Philanthropy in Service to Students

At CU Denver, students are at the center of everything we do. Whether they are the first in their family to attend college, transferring from a community college, or returning to school to pivot their careers, every student deserves a legitimate opportunity to succeed. This year’s record-breaking fundraising results will directly empower our students through scholarships, academic support programs, and pathways to career-connected learning. Our goal is simple yet profound: to remove avoidable obstacles so that every student has a clear path to graduation and a successful future.

Scholarships that provide financial resources to students continue to play a critical role in attracting students to the campus and helping them reach the finish line. By reducing or eliminating student debt, scholarships also directly and significantly influence the overall value our graduates receive from their degrees throughout their lifetimes. Our donors recognize this value, and last year they continued to prioritize scholarship support, whether making a 1-figure or 7-figure gift.

Additionally, donors recognized the pivotal influence academic support programs have on student success. They understand that advising, mentoring, and a strong first-year experience help students stay on track academically. While these programs can vary by school and college, philanthropic investments that allow us to replicate these programs campus-wide will ensure that all students—not just some—can fully engage in their education and thrive during their time at CU Denver.

As we continue to align academic programs with job market demands, forge stronger industry partnerships, and create innovative pathways for upskilling and lifelong learning, investments from the philanthropic community help bring our ambitious goals within reach

Faculty Excellence and Innovation

Faculty also stand to benefit directly from the extraordinary support recently directed to the campus. Gifts this past year allow the university to establish endowed chairs in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and Business School, an endowed professorship in the School of Public Affairs, and awards for early career faculty. 

Research, innovation, and entrepreneurship also garnered significant support. Donors continued to recognize the leading role universities play in driving innovation and specifically CU Denver’s unique position as an anchor institution for metro Denver and as a fast and nimble engine for opportunity.

Elevating Opportunity, Expanding Impact

Our donors’ generosity couldn’t come at a more critical moment. As the landscape of higher education continues to shift, CU Denver is embracing a growth mindset—evolving to meet the changing needs of students, the workforce, and our community. Each investment made in CU Denver ripples outward—empowering individuals, strengthening families, and uplifting entire communities.

Philanthropy also drives our success as a leader in promoting social mobility. Each year since 2021, U.S. News & World Report has ranked CU Denver the #1 university in Colorado for advancing social mobility. This means students who graduate from CU Denver are destined to elevate their socio-economic potential, enjoy greater opportunity, and contribute to a more prosperous society. Given that two-thirds of our graduates remain in Colorado, they play a significant role in building stronger communities and shaping or contributing to our region’s workforce across industries.

A Community United by Purpose

Behind every dollar raised this year is a story of connection: alumni giving back to the institution that helped launch their careers; faculty and staff supporting programs they believe in; community leaders investing in the city’s future through education; and foundations and corporations partnering with us to create lasting change.

We are particularly proud to highlight that gifts from CU Denver’s faculty and staff amounted to nearly $6.3 million this year. The fact that those who are closest to the university are supporting CU Denver out of their own pockets at this level speaks volumes about their commitment to the success of our students and of the campus overall.

Looking Ahead with Gratitude

While we celebrate this record-setting year, we know it is only the beginning. Our vision to Make Education Work for All requires sustained investment and a shared commitment to expanding access and ensuring success for every student. With the continued partnership of our philanthropic community, we will continue to grow—not just in ambition, but in impact. We are grateful to everyone within this community for believing in our students, investing in our faculty, and advancing a future in which CU Denver thrives—and brings Denver and the region with it. We look forward to building on this momentum together.