WMU Foundation

WMU Foundation Executive Director
Bud Bender

Diversity of Giving

Back to the Annual Report 2007-08

From the Executive Director

It is my pleasure to report to you the activities of the WMU Foundation, and the WMU Development Office, for the 2007-08 fiscal year. It was a very busy and successful year for both. I would like to thank our many alumni and friends who made 2007-08 one of the most successful fundraising years in our Foundation’s history. In total, more than $30.8 million in cash, in-kind, pledge and estate commitments were made to the WMU Foundation. The generosity of our donors, along with the efforts of our many volunteers and dedicated staff, made this achievement possible.

There was no one individual person or component within our overall operation that made 2007-08 an excellent year for WMU philanthropy. However, the successes of our Annual Fund and our Gary Fund were critical, as both enjoyed record-breaking years.

Last fiscal year was also an excellent one for our donor recognition society, as membership in the President’s Circle increased significantly. I’m also pleased to report that the WMU Development Office continued to raise funds in the most efficient manner possible. In 2007-08, we raised nearly eight dollars for every one dollar invested.

On behalf of the WMU Foundation and the Development Office, I would like to express my personal thanks to our many alumni and friends for their exemplary financial assistance to our University. Although we have all been challenged by the turbulent climate of the financial arena over the last several months, it very reassuring to remember the longstanding commitment of our many supporters. I look forward to reporting new fundraising successes to you in the future.

Best wishes,

Bud Bender
Executive Director
WMU Foundation