During the recent Finance Committee Meeting of the Tennessee State University (TSU) Board of Trustees, significant discussions centered on the university's fundraising efforts and alumni engagement strategies. The meeting, held on March 12, 2025, highlighted both the challenges and successes faced by the institution in its pursuit of financial support.

Dr. Tony, leading the discussion on institutional advancement, reported that TSU has raised approximately $4.3 million towards its ambitious goal of $10 million for the fiscal year. While this figure falls short of the target by about $5.6 million, it still represents an improvement over previous years, where annual fundraising typically hovered around $5 million. Dr. Tony expressed optimism that the university would likely reach around $6 million by the end of the fiscal year, despite a noted decline in contributions from the corps of foundation giving.

A key point of discussion was the increase in alumni donations, which have shown a positive trend for the first time since fiscal year 2019. Dr. Tony noted that alumni are beginning to contribute larger gifts, with some making donations of $20,000 to $25,000. This uptick in alumni giving is seen as a sign of renewed faith and commitment to the university, which is crucial for its financial health.

To further bolster alumni engagement, the university plans to revive its reunion events, targeting classes every five years instead of the traditional 40-year intervals. This initiative aims to reconnect alumni with the university and encourage their involvement in fundraising efforts. Currently, 15 classes are participating in this initiative, with a total of $288,000 raised so far.

Another significant development discussed was the implementation of a new development software platform, Blackbaud, which is expected to streamline fundraising processes and improve data management. This transition from manual to digital systems will enhance the university's ability to track donations and manage donor relationships effectively.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored TSU's ongoing efforts to enhance its fundraising capabilities and strengthen alumni relations. While challenges remain, particularly in securing foundation support, the positive trends in alumni giving and the introduction of new technology signal a proactive approach to ensuring the university's financial sustainability. The committee's discussions set the stage for continued engagement with donors and alumni, which will be vital as TSU moves forward in its fundraising endeavors.