TCNJ

19 John P. Donohue Executive Director It has been an amazing year for The College of New Jersey Foundation, one that has seen some remarkable firsts. On April 25, a thousand people gathered on Quimby's Prairie to celebrate the launch of The Campaign for TCNJ, the college's first comprehensive fundraising campaign. The effort, which the foundation is supporting, aims to raise $40 million to ensure that a TCNJ education remains exceptional and accessible. We're well on our way to achieving that goal. Read more about the campaign on the following pages. The past year also saw the foundation's gross assets top $40 million for the first time, driven, in part, by a significant increase in giving to the college. Philanthropic gifts and commitments increased by a staggering 268 percent over FY '14 (see graph on page 23). We surpassed our fundraising goal for the year by 30 percent. The launch of the campaign, growth of the endowment, and increase in giving are especially significant because of what these dollars mean to the future of TCNJ. As the chart on the facing page illustrates, the foundation invests in the work of the college in many ways. We provided $3.94 million in student scholarships, programmatic support, and professional development for faculty and staff last year. And we added more than $9 million to the endowment, which means we will be able to provide even more support in the future. These milestones would not have been possible without the help of many. The foundation is fortunate to have the support of dedicated volunteers who freely give of their time and talent because they believe deeply in TCNJ and its educational mission. I'd like to recognize but a few. This year, Jim Gater '71, '80 was appointed chairman of the foundation's board. Like his predecessors, Randy Lumia '84 and Terri Martinac '72, '73, Jim is an alumnus of the college. His years as an undergraduate were the prelude to a lifelong connection to this institution. He returned for a graduate degree and served as a longtime active member of the alumni association, including a term as president. Under his leadership, the board has reviewed and refined the foundation bylaws to ensure that they are in line with industry best practices. It has also helped to author numerous policies that are governing oversight and conduct of the campaign. While this was not glamorous work, it was essential to ensure that we are providing proper stewardship of all gifts. Leo Kelly '97, chair, and the members of the foundation's Finance and Investment Committee have provided outstanding leadership for our investment portfolio. Their expertise and oversight have led to returns that have exceeded the benchmarks. The fact that The Campaign for TCNJ is off to such an amazing start is owed in large part to co-chairs Barbara Meyers Pelson '59 and Allen Silk, who have led by example and set an upbeat tone from the outset. They were among the very first to support the campaign with leadership gifts, and they have rolled up their sleeves to keep staff and volunteers motivated and focused on the goals. Barbara and Allen enjoy the support of a dedicated army of volunteers. There are 10 development committees—one for each of our seven schools as well as various programs. In total, there are more than 60 people—alumni and friends—who are giving freely of their time to ensure that The Campaign for TCNJ is a resounding success. I have no doubt that it will be. With such a winning team in our corner, how could it be otherwise? ANNUAL REPORT 2014–2015 DEAR FRIENDS,

• Cover