Generous Heroes

Good morning.

Today, I want to highlight the thoughtful generosity of our donors and the significant impact their gifts have on the state’s only academic medical center. And in many cases, the person who deserves our appreciation is YOU!

Philanthropy drives progress. In striving toward our goals, private support can be the foundation success is built upon, or it may be what gets us over the line. In fiscal year 2026, fundraising support to the Medical Center hit an all-time high and was the catalyst for much progress. From July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026, we brought in more than $93 million in philanthropic gifts! This record is 22% higher than FY25 and was reached through the compassionate gifts of 4,700 donors, including nearly 1,500 who gave to UMMC for the first time.

Through this support last year, we were able to establish nine endowments and millions in new scholarships. We implemented new giving programs to respond to donor interests. We grew our planned giving program (such as when donors put UMMC in their estate plan/will or establish a charitable trust), which allows us to better plan for the future.

The campaign to fund a new home for the Cancer Center and Research Institute saw several large gifts last year, including from some of our most ardent supporters and businesses that were driven to support this important project for Mississippians. We are ahead of schedule in this effort, with about $102 million raised so far ($60 million in FY26) of the $125 million goal.

People and businesses continued supporting the Medical Center’s pediatrics programs with several donors supporting Children’s of Mississippi programs and facilities. It’s heartwarming to see so many Mississippians (and some people from outside the state) who want to support our role as the state’s leading health care provider to infants, kids and teens.

Maybe the group of donors that I’m most proud of is those who wear a UMMC badge. Our employees – you – supported this institution in amazing ways, including through your financial gifts. Last fiscal year, more than 1,600 employees gave a gift to the Medical Center, many through payroll deduction (which is the easiest way to support). The number of employee donors is likely even higher since some may not have noted that when they gave their gift. This type of support from our workforce is energizing! You already make significant impact on Mississippians through your work, and it’s fantastic that you take it a step further with your financial gifts. Thank you!

Employee Giving Week starts next Monday. The Office of Development and Alumni Engagement will have information tables and other opportunities where you can give or set up routine payroll deduction if you would like to do so. Click here if you’d like to go ahead and sign up.

The success of our fundraising efforts is not only about the dollars raised. It is measured in lives improved, students supported and discoveries advanced. Private philanthropy is a part of the foundation of everything we do. Every gift tells a story of someone who believes in us and the work you do every day. The supporters of the Medical Center – including those in the state and federal government – are critical members of our team. Together, we are building a stronger Medical Center and A Healthier Mississippi for generations to come.