ATLANTA, Jan. 14, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --Over the course of a history-making, seven-year effort, Emory University has raised more than $1.69 billion from alumni and friends to support teaching, research, scholarship, patient care and social action.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130114/DC41840)

Nearly 150,000 donors contributed to Campaign Emory, ensuring the success of the most ambitious fund-raising effort in the university's history. Emory alumni contributed more than $349 million of the overall total. Emory faculty and staff contributed more than $105 million to Campaign Emory.

Funds raised through the campaign already have begun to transform Emory's physical and academic landscapes, enhancing the student experience, teaching, research and patient care by better equipping the university and its medical centers to serve the local and larger communities.

This level of philanthropic support, even in the midst of a worldwide economic downturn, is inspiring, says Emory President James W. Wagner.

"Philanthropy touches every area of Emory's work. The success of this campaign and the generosity of our many donors affirm that we are on the right track," Wagner says. "This campaign exceeded its goal because of the thoughtful, essential support of many alumni and friends, faculty and staff. We are confident that they will share in our success and continue to support us as we pursue the important work their generosity has made possible."

Hundreds of volunteers donated their time to help make the campaign successful.

"Without the dedication of our volunteers, we could not have achieved all they have made possible. The Emory community owes a debt of gratitude to Sonny Deriso, volunteer chairman of Campaign Emory, and every one of our volunteers who gave their time to lead and serve on school and unit committees," Wagner says of Deriso, a 1968 graduate of Emory College and a 1972 graduate of Emory University School of Law.

Campaign Emory provided essential support to enhance academic programs and research in schools and units. More than 351 endowed funds were created. Over the course of the campaign, donors provided more than $225 million for student scholarships and programs.

The steady growth in personal giving reflects a growing culture of philanthropy at Emory, says Wagner.

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Supporters Contribute $1.69 Billion Through Campaign Emory