How USC Raised $6 Billion and Is Now Seeking More

When the University of Southern California announced its current capital campaign back in 2011, the fundraising world gasped. The private research institution’s goal of $6 billion was unprecedented and audacious. Furthermore, the Campaign for USC broke the rules of big drives: It went public after a short quiet phase, with less than 20 percent of its goal raised, about half as much as in most campaigns. The risks, however, are paying off. It’s on track to raise $6 billion 18 months ahead of schedule, says Albert Checcio, USC’s senior vice president for university advancement. More than 322,000 donors have contributed, and only a third are alumni.