QU Fund tops $1 million goal for 11th consecutive year

QUINCY — Quincy University surpassed its $1 million QU Fund goal for the 11th consecutive year, bringing in $1,027,740. The results were announced at a celebration on Wednesday.

The QU Fund is comprised of unrestricted giving and gifts for academic departments, student clubs and organizations, and the athletic department.

“I am so grateful for the alumni and friends of this wonderful university, whose sacrificial gifts to the QU Fund make it possible for us to bring a Quincy University education to the next generation of students,” QU president Brian McGee said in a prepared statement. “Each gift, especially in this extraordinarily difficult year, has helped a student in great financial need, bought critical supplies for a laboratory, aided in the renovation of a historic classroom or purchased equipment needed to continue QU operations during a global pandemic.

“Our amazing donors are one of the many reasons it’s always a great day to be a Hawk.”

When the QU Fund is combined with restricted giving and support of capital projects, $5,195,270 was raised during the 2020-21 fiscal year. This year, 3,111 donors gave to the annual fund — the highest number in the past five years.

“I arrived at QU as the 2020-21 fiscal year was wrapping up and was immediately impressed at the generosity of the alumni, friends and businesses for their loyal support of this wonderful institution,” Robert Wyatt, QU’s vice president of advancement, said in a prepared statement. “I’m inspired with the level of investment from QU donors. I am excited about what we can do together in the future.”

Co-chairs of this year’s QU Fund were Steve Green, a 1978 graduate, and his wife, Jean (Fruehe) Green, a 1979 graduate. The Greens met while attending QU. Steve is the controller for Phibro Animal Health Corporation. Jean retired from Quincy University after 39 years at the end of February 2019.  She worked in the business office and was the associate vice president for finance/controller. They have been married for 40 years. They have four married sons and seven grandchildren.

“We would like to thank all the alumni and friends that contributed to this year’s Quincy University’s Annual Fund drive,” the Greens said in a prepared statement. “There were many new challenges and hardships that individuals endured this year, but even a pandemic cannot stop the generosity of QU supporters. We are truly grateful for all who continue to support QU.”

The QU Fund raises money to support student scholarships, campus enhancements, technology upgrades and faculty development initiatives. The gifts are unrestricted and can be spent as they come in. The QU Fund also helps fuel the Success by Design initiative, which provides a customized plan for all students to graduate in a timely manner.

Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University is a small Catholic university emphasizing the sciences, liberal arts and the professions.