Fiscal year 2009 may have started with a severe economic downturn for the nation, but because of UAB’s generous donors, it ended on a high note for the university. In this first year of Phase II of the Maintaining the Momentum initiative, UAB raised $96.5 million, exceeding the goal by 38 percent. This is the largest amount raised in a single year in the history of the university.

Kahn

“This truly was an outstanding fundraising year for UAB,” said Shirley Salloway Kahn, Ph.D., vice president for Development, Alumni and External Relations. “The most amazing part — and a strong testament to the commitment of our donors — is that it was such a phenomenal success despite the depressed economy.

“We are so grateful to all our donors who contributed to make this year — and this decade — our best ever.”

A few of the larger gifts received during the year included $6 million from the McKnight Brain Research Foundation for the Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, $5 million from Parent Advocates Down Syndrome for the Adult Down Syndrome Clinic, $5 million from Jane Stephens Comer for the Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center youth outreach program, $5 million from an anonymous donor for scholarships and unrestricted support, and $2 million from Lakeshore Foundation for an endowed chair in Rehabilitation Services.

“Every gift that UAB receives, no matter the amount, makes a difference in our ability to serve our students, faculty, patients and community,” Kahn said.