The hallmarks of a VMI education—among them mentored undergraduate research, military training that’s second to none, and nationally known speakers coming to post to share their expertise in a wide variety of fields—are only made possible by private support from the Institute’s loyal alumni and many friends. And with the goal of creating as many opportunities for cadets as possible, members of the VMI family stepped up to provide $37.9 million in gifts and commitments in Fiscal Year 2026.
Each gift, no matter how large or small, is put to work in support of the young men and women in barracks today, along with those who will follow them in future years, as the Institute continues to prepare citizen-soldiers who will make their marks in multiple arenas both military and civilian as the 21st century advances.
Reunion giving in the form of cash gifts and future pledges, for decades a classic way for alumni to express gratitude for their VMI experience while supporting current and future cadets, resulted in $12,690,388 in FY2026. Another pillar of the Institute’s strength, annual giving, which is vital to supporting cadets as they seek a path in an ever-changing world, resulted in an average graduate participation rate of 18.45%. This figure is more than double the national average of 8.6%, demonstrating that members of the VMI family hold the Institute’s unique educational mission and methods in high regard.
In the area of annual giving, 43 classes—more than half the total of 80 active classes—reported participation higher than the overall average of 18.45%, and 14 classes had a participation rate greater than 40%, again showcasing alumni willingness to help cadets get the very most out of their VMI education.
In recent years, days of giving have become popular ways for colleges and universities to rally support for their institutions—and the Institute is no exception. The VMI Foundation’s Day of Giving, held Nov. 13, 2025, brought in $569, 981 for the Institute and Corps of Cadets. It was by far the Institute’s most successful Day of Giving yet, with the support of 1,234 donors, including 139 first-time donors.
Held March 24–26, 2026, Compete to Win, the Keydet Club’s fifth annual day of giving, was likewise a resounding success, with 1,859 generous alumni and friends providing $360,122 in support of athletic scholarships and operations for the cadet-athletes of the Institute’s 14 NCAA Division I athletic teams.
“The generosity of the VMI family is to be commended,” said Andrew C. Deal ’12, VMI Keydet Club chief operating officer and Alumni Agencies chief development officer. “Philanthropy is what turns the VMI experience into something more than an education — it’s mentorship, it’s opportunity, it’s the chance to be shaped into a leader. We’re grateful to everyone who makes that possible for our cadets.”
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Mary Price Communications Officer – Features
The communications officer – features leads the creation of compelling, mission-driven written content that often supports fundraising and donor engagement efforts. In addition to crafting development-focused communications, this role contributes to the editorial success of key Alumni Agencies publications through strategic, long-form storytelling and by maintaining close working relationships with volunteer leaders.
