Awarded University
2023 - 2024 Financial Report
Prepared for Mrs. Samantha Smith
Message from the President
Dear Mrs. Smith,
I am pleased to present Awarded University’s Annual Financial Report for fiscal year 2024. This document is much more than a financial update; we have prepared it as a review and reaffirmation of our commitment to expanding access to education, to the pursuit of innovation and truth, and our responsibility to the communities and societies around us that look to Awarded for leadership and inspiration for what’s to come.
I am pleased to share that we continue to expand our financial aid programs to our students. This past year we provided over $250 million in financial aid to students in a continued effort to reduce barriers to academic and research excellence for our students.
As you may know, we are pleased to provide full funding to undergraduate students from families with incomes below $90,000 per year. Students from families with annual incomes between $90,000 and $125,000 are no longer expected to contribute any more than 15% of their annual income to pay for their child’s tuition and fees.
About two in three students at Awarded University are participating in our financial accessibility programs, which we are incredibly proud of and aim to continue to strengthen in the years to come.
In addition to our financial access programs, we are proud to share our ongoing programs to advance our academic standards and research initiatives. As an example, Awarded has welcomed its largest ever cohort of PhD and Masters students this year, and we are pleased to have been named the 2023 - 2024 Most Innovative University Award by U.S. News and one of the top five Masters programs in the U.S. across 12 different programs.
These tremendous markers of progress would not be possible without you, and the wonderful donor community that has supported us through the ups and downs that we have seen in recent years. The endowment collectively totaled $1 billion for the first time last year, supported by the establishment of over 100 new endowed funds over the last 12 months. Our generous donors collectively gifted the institution over $70 million last year alone, which has allowed us to accelerate our strategic plans, which you will hear more about in the pages that follow.
When I arrived on campus some 5 years ago as a dean of the engineering school, I was in awe of the advancements and pace that this institution has operated with. Today, in every conversation I have with our students, faculty, administrators, and stakeholders, I am proud to observe the same velocity, pride and curiosity that has been so fundamental to the continued success of our community.
Chris Holms
President
November 2024
FY 2023 Admissions
2022 - 2027 Strategic Plan
Academic Excellence
Review and update all academic programs to ensure alignment with industry needs
Integrate technology and digital tools into the classroom
Provide professional development for faculty on innovative teaching methods
Establish interdisciplinary research centers focused on solving global challenges
Increase funding opportunities for faculty and student research.
ncrease Student Success and Engagement
Implement a comprehensive student support program, including academic advising, mental health services, and career counseling
Enhance the first year experience with mentoring and orientation programs
Use data analytics to identify at risk students and provide targeted interventions
Develop a robust alumni network to support student career development.
Conduct a university wide audit to identify areas for cost savings & efficiency improvements
Implement a centralized system for managing university resources, including facilities, technology, and personnel
Expand continuing education and online program offerings
Explore opportunities for public private partnerships.
of states represented
2023 - 2024 Endowment Report
MARKET VALUE OF ALL ASSETS
$1.0 Billion
as of June 30, 2024
The market value is calculated with the original gift amount and any additional gifts plus any total return (capital appreciation and earned income), net of investment expenses less distributions/payout from the endowment.
NEW GIFTS MADE
$70 Million
The expected income represents the fund’s share of the endowment payout available for the fund. This is calculated based on the endowment spending policy, which is currently set at five percent of the three-year moving average of the fund’s market value.
NEW SCHOLARSHIPS ESTABLISHED
42
Total number of new named scholarship funds established by fiscal year. Includes both endowed and non-endowed scholarship funds.
INVESTMENT STRATEGY
The endowment investment strategy is designed to maximize long-term returns while providing sufficient liquidity to support the university’s current operations and satisfying risk guidelines specific to the university’s objectives.
The Endowment is globally diversified and invested across asset classes. It is equity oriented with a long-term investment horizon.
ENDOWMENT ASSET ALLOCATION
U.S. Equities
Global Equities
Hedge Funds
Private Equity
Other
USE OF FUNDS
Since its founding in 1800, Awarded has been an innovator in higher ed, reaching out to an emerging middle class, embracing an urban identity and professional focus, and promoting a global vision that informs its 20 schools and colleges. It’s a dynamic combination that attracts students, faculty, and staff from around the world who thrive in our inclusive, collaborative, and student-centered community.
ALLOCATION OF DISTRIBUTIONS
General University
Financial Aid
Professorships
Program Support
Other
ABOUT THE RICHARD RAWLINGS LIBRARY
The Richard Rawlings Library opened this past year after 8 years of development. The new building contains 12,000 books, journals and publications and has quickly become a favorite gathering spot on campus for students and faculty alike.
Overview & Financials
The Awarded Scholarship was established in 2008 with the aim of providing financial assistance to deserving students who demonstrate academic excellence and significant community involvement. It was created to honor the legacy of John Armstrong, a dedicated alumnus whose passion for education and philanthropy inspired this endowment. The scholarship supports students across all disciplines, ensuring they have the resources needed to achieve their educational and professional goals.
as of December 31, 2023
R
me, how much has been added in the last
$6,500 new gifts and additions made to the endowment between June 1, 2023 - May 31, 2024
Jenny G.
2023 - 24 recipient of the Awarded Scholarship
Class of 2026 · Art History Major · Minor in Literature · From Chicago, IL
What does this support mean to you?
This scholarship means the world to me, as it allows me to pursue my passion for art history without the burden of financial stress. Being from Illinois, it also gives me the opportunity to connect with and contribute to the rich cultural heritage of our community.
What are your career & educational goals?
My career goal is to become a curator at a major art museum, where I can share my passion for art with the public and contribute to preserving our cultural heritage. Educationally, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in art history to deepen my knowledge and expertise in the field.
Thank You!
Report
SMITH ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
Established in 1998 by Joe Smith, the Smith Endowed Scholarship was created to support students interested in the arts. Mr. Johnson is an avid painter and has found great value in the pursuit of human expression, and wishes to provide financial support to a field of work that has had great meaning to him and his family.
$313,490
Market Value
The market value is calculated with the original gift amount and any additional gifts plus any total return (capital appreciation and earned income), less distributions/payout from the endowment fund.
$210,000
Book Value
The book value is calculated with the original gift amount and any additional gifts.
$15,000
Distributions from Earnings
The expected income represents the fund’s share of the endowment payout available for the fund. This is calculated based on the endowment spending policy, which is currently set at X percent of the three-year moving average of the fund’s market value.
This Year’s Recipient
JENNY G.
Class of 2026 · From Chicago, IL
Majoring in Art History · Minoring in English Lit
What does this support mean to you?
This scholarship means the world to me, as it allows me to pursue my passion for art history without the burden of financial stress. Being from Illinois, it also gives me the opportunity to connect with and contribute to the rich cultural heritage of our community.
What are your career & educational goals?
My career goal is to become a curator at a major art museum, where I can share my passion for art with the public and contribute to preserving our cultural heritage. Educationally, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in art history to deepen my knowledge and expertise in the field.