When David Routh begins his job as the new vice chancellor of development on Oct. 14, it is absolutely imperative that he starts fundraising immediately.
UNC has been without a top fundraiser since Matt Kupec resigned over a year ago due to allegations that he misused University funds.
During the past year, UNC has suffered budget cuts from the N.C. General Assembly with direct impacts such as the faculty retention rate suffering.
At last week’s Board of Trustees meeting, it was presented that UNC has faced around $184.1 million in budget cuts over the past four years.
Routh has said that he would take time to listen to donors, deans and committee donors to gain input.
While it is obviously important that Routh take time to listen to people and form relationships for a fundraising plan to be successful, UNC needs to be able to raise significant money — and soon.
During Kupec’s tenure, there were talks that the largest fundraising campaign in the University’s history would be started. However, it has continually been pushed back after questions arose about Kupec and his use of funds.
Routh has a tough task ahead. He will be closely monitored and any success or lack thereof will directly impact the University.
Routh should not be alone in his endeavors. It is up to Chancellor Carol Folt when the next fundraising project will begin. Folt should ensure that Routh is able to create and implement a successful program.
Carolina First, the last major fundraising effort, raised more than $2.38 billion. This means that the next fundraising project will have even higher expectations for success.
With significant budget cuts affecting UNC and the lack of a permanent fundraiser over the last year, the time has come for fundraising to begin in earnest.
