University of South Carolina Raises Record $357.6 Million in Fiscal Year 2026

The University of South Carolina had a banner year, shattering its fundraising record by nearly $100 million. The USC system raised a record $357.6 million in private donations during fiscal year 2026, up from its previous record of $259.7 million just one year before.

The record total reflects contributions across all eight system campuses, supported by an expanded donor base. System financial reports indicate that more than 38,400 donors contributed to the university during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, generating direct funding for academic programs, research initiatives, and student scholarships.

Several large investments led the record-breaking year, including one from the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation, established by the late billionaire Houston Texans founder, who died in November 2018. Janice McNair recently died on July 14, 2026.

In 2026, the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation donated $25 million to USC, part of the couple’s longstanding philanthropic partnership with the university. All in, the foundation has given at least $81 million to USC since 1998, starting with a $20 million gift to launch the McNair Scholars program. Other major gifts included $10 million to sustain the scholars program, $8 million to found the McNair Institute for Entrepreneurism and Free Enterprise, $18 million for more scholar awards, and the $25 million gift this year.

Robert, a 1958 USC graduate, and his wife, Janice, established the McNair Scholars program at USC in 1998. The merit-based scholarship is offered to the top 20 out-of-state students each year entering the South Carolina Honors College.

“Those who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements with a commitment to service and leadership represent our future,” Robert and Janice McNair said in a joint statement published on their foundation’s website. “We are delighted to provide scholarships to these deserving students.”

The financial growth marks a 37.7 percent increase over the university’s prior annual record set in fiscal year 2025. Data reported to the University of South Carolina Board of Trustees shows that private gifts were distributed across the flagship Columbia campus as well as system institutions in Aiken, Beaufort, and Spartanburg, alongside regional Palmetto College campuses.