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THE GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
Philanthropy Impact Report
2024
In a true only-at-GW moment, Yahya Aliyu, B.S. ’23, M.S. ’24, addresses an audience of thousands during the 2024 GW Commencement on the National Mall. Aliyu’s GW experience was supported in part by the Josephine R. Shepard Scholarship, which was endowed by the largest one-time donation by an alumna or alumnus in GW’s history.
Dear Friends,
As our world evolves in unpredictable ways and our lives encounter joy and challenge, I place increasing faith in institutions that form the foundation of our civic life. I am delighted to share GW’s second Philanthropy Impact Report, highlighting the numerous ways donors to GW are making a tangible difference.
I am buoyed by the investments individuals, foundations, families, corporations, and government agencies continue to make in this university. GW’s base of donors is growing, as is the engagement of our alumni–a testament to our supporters’ belief in the power of GW to change the world.
Few organizations have GW’s talent, access, and commitment to public leadership. This report reflects just some of the many ways these strengths, bolstered by your support, have an enduring impact.
Thank you for your commitment to GW.
For GW,
Donna Arbide
Vice President, Development & Alumni Relations
I look forward to discussing and exploring your personal philanthropic passions. I may be reached directly at [email protected] or 202-994-1058.
GW’s community of supporters is strong and getting even stronger.
In 2024, we:
Grew annual giving by 8% over the previous 3-year average
Grew our base of donors by 7.8% over the previous fiscal year
Raised nearly $33M in support of GW’s talented students, 22% over our previous 3-year average
Retained 69% of our alumni donors, compared to an industry average of 59.7%
Reached and engaged more than 84,000 alumni worldwide
GW Cares
The GW Cares Student Assistance Fund provides emergency funding for students facing financial hardship—covering housing, food, technology, or other urgent needs. Generous donors support ongoing emergency student needs through GW Cares, The Store (GW's Food Pantry), the Cokie and Steve Roberts SMPA Student Assistance Fund, and the Ron Howard Student Assistance Fund.
Since 2020, these initiatives have provided more than 4,700 instances of emergency support to GW students.
“Navigating college can be treacherous at any age. When I took the leap to pursue my master’s degree at GW, eight hours away from my family, we thought we had planned for every eventuality. But when I found myself facing unforeseen financial challenges, the GW Cares Fund was a crucial lifeline. Having access to those emergency funds allowed me to stay at GW and on track to achieving my dream.”
— Andrew Mitakides, M.A. ’26
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