What happens when you’re in the middle of a quantum leap and the ground falls away? That’s what CC and many other great organizations in the world are asking right now. In recent years at CC, we’ve taken a quantum leap in our admissions profile, in the excellence and the vibrancy of our campus experience, and in the level of support from our generous investors.

“The mind, once expanded to dimensions of larger ideas, never returns to its original size.”
— Oliver Wendell Holmes

For the five years prior to 2004, the average annual giving receipts to CC were $2.7 million, a healthy level. But in the five years preceding the economic crisis the average was a quantum leap beyond that, at $4.9 million.

In December 2008, at a dark time in our country’s economy, our loyal donors came through. We finished calendar year 2008 with a record $22,596,224.00 in cash gifts received. And in January, we were energized by several major gifts from new donors – parents of current students – who saw that NOW was a good time to make an impact.

By the way, it is true that the number of alumni donors to CC has been declining. CC is receiving more gift income from fewer donors. This is consistent with national trends. While we would very much like to buck that trend (and invite your help!), so far we have only been able to stem the decrease in donors somewhat.

Average annual giving receipts for fiscal years ending June 2000-04: $2.7 million
Average annual giving receipts for fiscal years ending June 2004-08: $4.9 million

Income from the President’s Circle, whose members each contribute $10,000 or more annually unrestricted, has grown from zero dollars in 2003 to a consistent $1.4 million per year from well over 150 members since its 2004 inception. Similarly, the 1874 Society has grown from $550,000 in 2004 to $1.2 million in 2008 — more than double. Donors of smaller amounts have continued to decline, but only by 6.8 percent over the five years. The President’s Circle and the 1874 Society more than make up for the loss at the lower levels.

So, what happens when you are in the middle of a quantum leap and the ground falls away? One thing we’ve learned: You can count on friends to catch you.

“Income from the President’s Circle has grown from zero dollars in 2003 to a steady $1.4 million per year since its 2004 inception. Similarly, the 1874 Society has grown from $550,000 in 2004 to $1.2 million in 2008 — more than double.”