In addition, 9,246 alumni who donated to the Annual Fund last year did so again this year, and seven reunion classes beat their personal records for dollars or donors. The class of 1992, for example, raised a record $600,000 for the 25th reunion, and had an impressive 73 percent class participation. The classes of 1967 and 2007 were close behind, with 68 percent and 67 percent participation, respectively.
The Annual Fund is vital because every dollar goes directly into the College’s operating budget, supporting the teaching and learning that is central to an Amherst education. The fund was started in 1906 by a group of alumni, and generations of alumni have volunteered and contributed to the fund in the years since.
“We are deeply grateful to both our donors and the tremendous network of volunteers who made this year a success! Volunteering for the Annual Fund is a commitment," said Kathy Chia '88, Alumni Fund co-chair. "But the bonds we build with our fellow alums and the College make it incredibly rewarding.”