The Campaign for the University of Southern California has crossed the $5 billion milestone toward its $6 billion goal only 5½ years after the university began its historic fundraising effort.

USC’s campaign aims to advance its missions of teaching, research, patient care and public service, and to expand the university’s impact and influence around the world.

About the campaign The $5 billion raised thus far has been used to benefit academic excellence: Academic priorities: $2.7 billion University endowment: $1.6 billion Capital projects: $700 million

“The wholehearted support from our trustees, alumni, friends and parents is a tremendous vote of confidence from those who share our vision,” USC President C. L. Max Nikias said. “We are so appreciative of their generous contributions, which are fueling our progress among the world’s most preeminent research universities.”

Trustees lead the effort

The campaign’s success has been led by members of USC’s Board of Trustees, who have collectively contributed nearly $1.4 billion of the campaign total. In all, more than 295,000 alumni, parents and friends have contributed to the university’s transformation, and about 88 percent of those have made gifts under $1,000. Of the funds raised, more than 60 percent has come from non-alumni.

Campaign gifts are having an impact across the university, building the endowment for faculty, research and student scholarships as well as advancing the university’s ongoing academic priorities. Funds are also supporting the construction and renovation of facilities, including such transformative projects as USC Village, scheduled to open in fall 2017.

‘Deeply grateful’

“Year after year, the Trojan Family shows the world what we can accomplish when we work together,” said Albert R. Checcio, senior vice president for university advancement. “We set an ambitious campaign goal and supporters have responded with incredible enthusiasm. We are deeply grateful to each and every donor.”

Both Nikias and Checcio have good reason to be confident the university will reach its bold goal of $6 billion.

“The Trojan Family understands that USC is uniquely positioned to make significant advances and contributions to society,” Nikias said. “All of the money raised is invested in academic excellence, fueling the ascent of the university and helping USC reach its highest potential.”

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