DURHAM, N.H. -- The University of New Hampshire Foundation raised $35.8 million in FY13 (July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013), making it the largest fundraising year in UNH's history, beating the previous record of $29.9 million set in 2002. Included in the total are eight gifts of at least $1 million. The UNH development staff had set a goal to raise $28 million.

Gifts and pledges last fiscal year (FY12) totaled $22.5 million, the most raised in the previous decade.

UNH President Mark Huddleston credited the dedication and commitment of UNH's alumni and friends. "When we tell our story well and engage in meaningful ways with our alumni and friends, they respond. They really believe in UNH and are committed to our aspirations," Huddleston said.

"Success inspires success and builds momentum, and this is especially important as we continue to plan for a comprehensive campaign," said Debbie Dutton, president of the foundation and vice president of advancement. "We are pleased to have ended our fiscal year on such an incredibly high note." Dutton arrived at UNH less than a year ago from Colby College, where she was vice president of development and alumni relations.

A gift of more than $5 million from Peter T. Paul '67 will be used for academic and student programs in the new Paul College of Business and Economics. "I believe UNH is one of my best investments, an investment I am proud to make," Paul said. "UNH is my university. I graduated from here, and its success is important to me."

A $1 million gift to the Sustainability Institute establishes The Thomas W. Haas Professorship in Sustainable Food Systems. The gift from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation was generated from a donor-advised fund established by Durham philanthropist Tom Haas. "I am proud of our state's university and its leadership in the nation as an institution committed to sustainability," said Haas. "For future generations it is important that we embrace the principles of sustainability now. I am pleased to do what I can to move the dialogue and the work forward."

Other highlights include the John and H. Irene Peters Professorship in the education department, funded by the Peters family; an endowed scholarship fund of more than $1 million from the estate of alumna Marilyn Rumley '52 to provide financial aid and student support in the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture; scholarships for students in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, athletics and Northeast Passage; and student and program support in the performing arts.

-30-