VCU Libraries Annual Fund grew in FY20
VCU Libraries grew membership in the Friends of VCU Libraries by 3 percent in fiscal year 2020 and enjoyed a revenue growth of 42 percent from fiscal year 2019. While membership growth lagged behind revenue growth, we finished the year strong despite entering into a pandemic and near shut down of development efforts for the last quarter of FY20.
Sarah Neely, Officer of Annual Giving and Corporate Sponsorships for VCU Libraries said “In my first full year with VCU Libraries, I put into place a series of appeals to alumni and friends that resulted in an uptick in Friends of VCU Libraries memberships and other unrestricted giving. We chose to stop those solicitations with the onset of COVID-19 which certainly kept our overall numbers from increasing more.”
In addition to asking more regularly, Neely works closely one-on-one with donors to determine their interests in supporting VCU Libraries. This has led to increased levels of giving for which we are most grateful. Revenue growth can also be attributed to a new membership program rolled out (revamped with benefits and levels) encouraging current members to increase their annual support.
The Annual Fund at VCU Libraries is an important source of regular funding for unmet needs that arise in a year. The most flexible of funds, it can be used for purchasing materials, improving spaces or bringing a noted speaker to campus for an event. It impacts every student at VCU in ensuring the resources, spaces and staff they need are there to help them.