
Impact
Whether you support scholarships, facilities, research experiences, athletics or academic programs, your gifts make a daily impact on the University of IllinoisNews & Stories
Each University of Illinois donor has a unique and inspirational story tied to their giving, and we’re thrilled to share them.

Omair Ahmed Makes Transformational Investment in UIC Men’s Basketball
September 23, 2026 05:01 PMLandmark gift from Chicago entrepreneur and Goldfinch founder/CEO to significantly elevate resources, opportunities and profile of Flames program.

Former Illini Cheerleader Establishes Cheerleading Scholarship Fund
September 11, 2026 10:35 AMFormer University of Illinois cheerleader David A. Mizer has established the David A. Mizer Cheerleading Education Fund, creating a new scholarship opportunity for members of the Fighting Illini Cheerleading program.
A Message on the Foundation's Endowment Strategy and Progress
October 30, 2026 04:00 PMA statement from the University of Illinois Foundation

Because of You: University of Illinois Foundation Announces Record‑Setting $748.3 Million in FY26 New Business
October 23, 2026 09:30 AMMore than 50,000 donors and nearly 194,000 gifts push UIF past last year’s record by $92.3 million

Larry Gies pledges $100 million matching gift to Gies College of Business
October 20, 2026 11:24 AMThe pledge, which will potentially generate $200M for scholarships, students, and faculty support, brings his lifetime giving to the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign to $350M, making him its largest benefactor.

Omair Ahmed Makes Transformational Investment in UIC Men’s Basketball
September 23, 2026 05:01 PMLandmark gift from Chicago entrepreneur and Goldfinch founder/CEO to significantly elevate resources, opportunities and profile of Flames program.

Former Illini Cheerleader Establishes Cheerleading Scholarship Fund
September 11, 2026 10:35 AMFormer University of Illinois cheerleader David A. Mizer has established the David A. Mizer Cheerleading Education Fund, creating a new scholarship opportunity for members of the Fighting Illini Cheerleading program.
A Message on the Foundation's Endowment Strategy and Progress
October 30, 2026 04:00 PMA statement from the University of Illinois Foundation

Because of You: University of Illinois Foundation Announces Record‑Setting $748.3 Million in FY26 New Business
October 23, 2026 09:30 AMMore than 50,000 donors and nearly 194,000 gifts push UIF past last year’s record by $92.3 million

Larry Gies pledges $100 million matching gift to Gies College of Business
October 20, 2026 11:24 AMThe pledge, which will potentially generate $200M for scholarships, students, and faculty support, brings his lifetime giving to the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign to $350M, making him its largest benefactor.

Omair Ahmed Makes Transformational Investment in UIC Men’s Basketball
September 23, 2026 05:01 PMLandmark gift from Chicago entrepreneur and Goldfinch founder/CEO to significantly elevate resources, opportunities and profile of Flames program.

Former Illini Cheerleader Establishes Cheerleading Scholarship Fund
September 11, 2026 10:35 AMFormer University of Illinois cheerleader David A. Mizer has established the David A. Mizer Cheerleading Education Fund, creating a new scholarship opportunity for members of the Fighting Illini Cheerleading program.

Donor Recognition

As the premier donor recognition program of the University of Illinois, the President’s Council recognizes individuals who make significant philanthropic investments in the University totaling $50,000 or more. Learn more about the impact of President’s Council support and the benefits of membership.
Learn moreHighlights
FY26 New Business Designations
Gifts in FY26
193,853Donors in FY26
63,841
The University of Illinois’ three universities have been innovating for more than 150 years. Advancement at Illinois should be no different. We believe anyone with an idea can change our industry. Especially with a little help.
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