The Office of Development cultivates relationships with prospective donors and coordinates its work with the UWM Foundation. Formerly decentralized, the University’s fund-raising infrastructure has become more unified. Most school/college-affiliated gift officers work together in one office.

Established in 1974, the UWM Foundation raised $17 million in 2003-04, surpassing previous yearly totals by $3.3 million. In addition, a 9 percent increase made it the best year for alumni giving. The number of planned-gift commitments also increased approximately 18 percent. UWM’s endowment is currently $38 million. An additional $7 million is in UW System Trust funds. In 2004 a one-year scholarship campaign was begun and completed, which raised $6.3 million, exceeding the goal of $5 million.

UWM is preparing for its first capital campaign. A feasibility study has been conducted and its recommendations (consolidation of the campus development efforts to emphasize major gifts, upgrading the annual giving programs and technology, management reports, database screening, and contracting with a campaign consultant) are being implemented. With campaign preparation continuing, the Chancellor has spent his first several months in office taking his message to donors and the community. He has successfully recruited the first campaign chairs and an honorary chair. The broad themes of the $100 million campaign have been established: Capital Improvements and Equipment, $50 million, Building the Faculty Base for the 21st Century, $25 million and Providing Access and Opportunity for Students, $25 million.