Columbus State University Endowment Reaches Historic $100 Million Milestone

By Janell Williams

COLUMBUS, Ga. — Columbus State University has achieved a historic milestone with its donor-supported endowment surpassing $100 million for the first time in the institution’s history.

This record-breaking achievement highlights the university’s continued support from donors who invest in CSU’s students, faculty and programs, officials said.

“This high-water mark is another testament to the trust and support of the donors who invest in Columbus State University, its students and its programs,” said Tim Money, chair of the CSU Foundation. He noted that the foundation’s volunteer trustees are dedicated to responsible stewardship of these funds.

Columbus State’s endowment portfolio includes nearly 300 individual funds, 70 of which were established in the last five years alone. Among recent contributions are those from Dr. Ellen Roberts, a retired professor from the College of Education & Health Professions, who created endowments for both undergraduate scholarships and graduate fellowships.

Other notable endowments include the Hallock Endowment for Military History, which supports the Department of History, Geography & Philosophy and funds public lectures and academic initiatives. The Hallock Endowment helped recruit Dr. David Kieran, who now serves as the Colonel Richard R. Hallock Distinguished University Chair in Military History.

Additionally, the Swift Distinguished Chair endowment at the Schwob School of Music supports the program's current director, Dr. Scott Harris, and was established by Barbara Carlton “Bobsie” Swift and her late husband, Clifford J. Swift III.

Endowments at CSU begin with a minimum contribution of $25,000 and may support scholarships, academic programs, student services or faculty positions. Donors also have the option of adding to existing endowment funds, allowing the principal to grow and increase investment income.

The Foundation and its board of volunteer trustees guide the university’s endowment investments. The foundation’s Investment Committee, composed of financial and banking experts, helps to ensure that CSU’s investment strategies align with university goals and national benchmarks.

CSU President Dr. Stuart Rayfield expressed gratitude for the foundation’s guidance, emphasizing that the endowment’s success demonstrates stability even amid market volatility.

“Thanks to their leadership, our endowment investment returns pace with, and sometimes exceed, University System of Georgia and national benchmarks,” Rayfield said.

With a ranking of seventh among the University System of Georgia’s 26 public institutions, CSU’s endowment stands out within the state system.

Vice President for Advancement Dr. Rocky Kettering noted that despite being one of the smaller schools in the top seven, CSU’s endowment strength reflects “loyal and faithful donors” who are committed to the university’s mission.

For more information on endowments, visit Columbus State University’s Division of University Advancement website.