Ithaca College

Dear Colleagues,

Last year, I formally announced the rebranding and naming of the Ithaca College Annual Fund, or as you will often see it, the IC Annual Fund. This was an important first step in positioning Ithaca College to build a base of regular, consistent supporters who give to the greatest needs at Ithaca College as we prepare for the comprehensive campaign.

To date, our alumni, parents, and friends have responded well to this effort. In the fiscal year that ended May 31, we set a record in giving to the IC Annual Fund by raising $1.16 million in support, exceeding our initial goal, and we are working to set another record again this year. We had over 7,700 donors to the fund as well -- a positive indicator that we are building some recognition of the critical importance of this type of support.

To build on this clear message to constituents about the value of this support, we have established a policy to place the responsibility for annual solicitation with the IC Annual Fund within the Division of Institutional Advancement. 

This policy, based on established best principles of fundraising, has several purposes. First, as we strive to make the best use of resources, we need to ensure that we ask our alumni, parents, and friends to support projects and programs that are consistent with our institutional priorities. Second, our most generous alumni and friends are often involved with many aspects of Ithaca College, and we need to be sure to guard against excessive and uncoordinated requests for financial support.

In order to protect the college's ability to raise unrestricted gifts for current use, I encourage you to read the newly formulated guidelines for solicitations by departments and programs. Departmental contributions can still be made by donors, but the emphasis is on securing the most flexible funding possible to support the most important priorities for our institution and ensure our vision. In addition, from time to time, special broad-based campaigns to solicit current restricted gifts for an approved fundraising priority may be deemed appropriate. In either case, however, all direct mail, email, and phonathon solicitations must be coordinated and approved by Rob de la Fuente, director of the IC Annual Fund, and/or the vice president for institutional advancement. If you have questions, Rob or I would be happy to discuss with you at your convenience.

We look forward to working with you in the months leading up to the comprehensive campaign for Ithaca College, and appreciate your partnership in working to create stronger and more vibrant cultures of engagement and philanthropy at IC.

Chris Biehn
Vice President for Institutional Advancement