Donors to the University of Arizona College of Humanities contributed more than $1.5 million in support during 2020, funding an array of student scholarships, faculty research and outreach programs.

 

“We are humbled by the tremendous support from donors, year in and year out, and the value they see in the mission of the College of Humanities. Whether they’re supporting students, faculty, programs or other priorities, our community of partners and advocates create opportunities that wouldn’t exist otherwise,” says Dean Alain-Philippe Durand.

 

In the last several years, the College of Humanities has experienced a significant increase in philanthropy. The sum of all gifts and new commitments for 2020 was $1,544,711, with 1,127 gifts from a total of 730 donors.

 

In a year that saw study abroad programs canceled, the College put greater focus on student scholarships. Across the spring, summer and fall terms, 121 students received more than $218,000 in a total of 141 scholarship awards.

 

“Our students faced unprecedented challenges in 2020 and it’s gratifying to know that they have champions who are eager to provide resources that make all the difference,” says Michele Murphy, College of Humanities Director of Development.

 

The College also increased its focus on faculty support in 2020. The new Helen Chatfield Endowment was launched and will fund several awards for COH faculty research, teaching, outreach and service.

 

Supporters enable numerous other programs across the college. Current and ongoing fundraising efforts are dedicated to building new home for the Center for Buddhist Studies in the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, an endowment for the Humanities Seminars Program, and rare books acquisition and preservation at the Poetry Center.