The University of North Texas recently announced a historic achievement, having raised a record-breaking $67.8 million in donations for the 2024 fiscal year. With more than 11,000 gifts received, this surpasses the previous high of $61 million set in 2019.
Among the many contributions, several transformative gifts have played a key role in enhancing UNT’s ability to support its students, advance research and programs and make a lasting impact on both the local community and the state of Texas.
Notable donations include gifts from the Smyth and Millican families, which have significantly boosted UNT’s financial aid efforts. The Smyths, UNT alumni, made a planned gift to fund endowed chairs and scholarships for Spanish and world languages, while the Millican family’s $2.2 million endowment supports the newly renamed Don and Donna Millican Accounting Scholars Program in the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. These gifts provide vital resources for future students to achieve their academic goals.
A $1 million gift from the Meyer family will expand the Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, promoting the program in smaller communities and improving facilities to better serve students. This support helps UNT reach talented students in underserved areas. The John and Bonnie Strauss Foundation’s $1 million gift will also fund a new commercial music program, offering unique opportunities in this growing field.
“This remarkable fundraising year is a direct result of our collective focus on student success and innovation. Gifts have fueled projects like UNT’s expansion in Frisco, new scholarship programs, and cutting-edge research,” Vice President for University Advancement Brandon Buzbee said in an official statement. “As we celebrate these achievements, I am proud of the efforts to ensure today’s students have the resources and opportunities to succeed and carry UNT’s legacy forward.”
Another key highlight of the fiscal year was the success of the second annual UNT Day of Giving in May 2024, where the university community united to support UNT's top priorities. In just one day, 2,561 donors raised $770,188, demonstrating the strength of collective philanthropy and contributing to this record-setting year.
“As we close this historic year, I am honored to build upon the strong foundation laid by my predecessor, Dr. Neal Smatresk,” said UNT President Dr. Harrison Keller. “The incredible generosity shown by our donors this year is a testament to their belief in UNT’s mission to provide exceptional educational opportunities and drive innovation. I am excited to lead UNT into the future, ensuring that we continue to inspire and empower our students.”
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