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Along with admission, perhaps the data trends of most concern in the recent review
of the college involve our fund-raising performance in recent years. To be
sure, the college enjoyed great success with its most recent campaign, raising $387
million and implementing several important programs and capital improvements. However,
we have experienced some persistent adverse trends since the recent economic downturn. Of
particular concern, our alumnae participation rate in giving has diminished. While
it is true that through the last campaign our focus was on larger gifts more than
participation rate, these data are troubling in what they may portend for philanthropic
support moving forward.
Smith, like other colleges, will also be challenged by the generational transfer
of wealth from the generation of alumnae upon which we have traditionally relied
for larger gifts to younger generations. We are seeing increased interest among
donors in directing gifts and comparing gifts among philanthropic opportunities to
determine where they will have the greatest impact. We may have opportunities
to expand our reach for gifts from corporations and foundations, seeking matches
with our own strategic priorities.
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Setting
the Context
Important Issues
Facing Smith
Enhancing
admissions competitiveness
Balancing
economic access with competing institutional priorities
Exploring the shape of the curriculum and intellectual
capacities
Investing in faculty development
Leveraging role as residential academic community
Examining
opportunities for
special academic programs
Articulating Smith’s
distinctive position and advantage
Enhancing philanthropic support
Improving the climate for diversity
Aligning facilities planning with strategic priorities
Next Steps in the
Planning Process
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