Exeter alumni campaign raises more than £68 million

Former students and supporters gave more than £68 million and 92,000 volunteering hours to the University of Exeter's biggest ever philanthropy campaign.

Making the Exceptional Happen – which began in 2012 and has now ended – raised money for vital research in areas such as dementia, diabetes and cancer; environmental problems like climate change, plastic pollution and food security; and economic, social and political dynamics across the world.

Funds also supported bursaries and scholarships so talented students can attend Exeter irrespective of their financial background, and paid for sports facilities and student events.

Volunteers provided a wide range of assistance including career talks and student mentoring.

Gerry Brown, alumnus and Chair of the Campaign Board, said: “When we set the goal of raising £60 million by the end of 2020 it was the most ambitious fundraising campaign Exeter ever embarked on, with a target almost three times the amount raised previously.

“Despite this we actually hit the target 12 months ahead of schedule and the volunteering goal two years in advance.

"This is thanks to the generosity of Exeter’s community of alumni and friends and we are incredibly grateful to every single person who has supported us.”

In 2020 the campaign focussed on supporting research into COVID-19, as well as helping students deal with the impact of the pandemic.

In the spring, 1,300 alumni and friends donated £120,000 to Exeter’s Emergency Appeal in support of trials to improve the speed and accuracy of blood tests.

Donations also supported research into issues including levels of COVID-19 infectiousness and the societal impact of the pandemic.

Another gift enabled Exeter researchers to implement technologies to support the mental health of dementia sufferers in care homes during the pandemic.

Dr Shaun Curtis, Director of Global Advancement at the University of Exeter, said: “It is wonderful to reach the end of our campaign having exceeded both our financial and volunteering targets.

"Every hour that has been given to provide advice to students and fellow alumni, and every pound donated to support the work of the University, has had a massive impact.

“We have received donations from supporters in 95 countries around the world, demonstrating the reach of the work we do, and showcasing what a global community we have at Exeter.

"Fundraising will continue of course because there are still many global challenges in need of support, but this is a great milestone to reach and one that we look forward to celebrating with our friends and supporters once it’s safe to host in-person events again."