Yale launched the For Humanity campaign in October 2021 with the most ambitious financial goal in the university’s fundraising history. But alongside that $7 billion target are three important strategic goals that underpin campaign activities while supporting transparency, inclusion, and a more unified Yale.
Alumni, parents, and friends have partnered with Yale leaders to advance these goals: to strengthen the bonds that connect alumni, to strengthen Yale’s foundation for the future, and to energize the entire Yale community.
“Yale’s community is one of our greatest strengths, and through this campaign, I hope that all members—whether they’re on campus or thousands of miles away—can find a way to feel connected to Yale and its mission,” says President Maurie McInnis. “Becoming Yale’s president in the midst of this campaign has been inspiring, and I am committed to doing my part to ensure the great momentum continues.”
Strengthening Bonds
Through regional Yale Clubs and interest groups, the Yale Alumni Association helps Yalies all over the world stay in touch. Those who wish to take a more active role may volunteer to lead a group, help organize their reunions, interview prospective students, or engage in a mentoring relationship with students or alumni. With the Office of Development, volunteers help fundraise for the Yale Alumni Fund, class reunion gifts, and the overall For Humanity campaign. Campaign volunteers include five co-chairs, honorary chairs, a campaign committee, regional advisory groups, and a group focused on support for students. Last year, 14,422 individuals volunteered for Yale in engagement or fundraising capacities.
Energizing the Community
Since 2022, the For Humanity campaign has taken some of Yale’s most inspiring ideas on the road with For Humanity Illuminated, a series of events in cities across the US and abroad. More than 3,100 people have attended the events, which are free of charge and open to all in the Yale community. After TED-style talks from faculty members and alumni, attendees have the chance to share ideas and meet old friends and new at a reception. The events are also livestreamed and recorded, so anyone can watch.
In 2025, For Humanity Illuminated relaunches with a new program featuring President McInnis.
“I am excited to meet more members of the Yale community and to have the chance to share how the For Humanity campaign is helping faculty and students make strides in creating, sharing, and preserving knowledge here at Yale and in the wider world,” she says.
A Foundation for the Future
Engagement opportunities for the Yale community have evolved and will continue to grow. As the student body has become more diverse, so has the worldwide Yale alumni community. New groups make it easier for every Yale graduate to feel like they belong.
On campus, students learn early how they can stay connected. An initiative called For Bright College Years sponsors events for students and shares information about how they can remain involved after graduation, and the Yale Alumni Fund Student Ambassadors are a group of students working with the Yale Alumni Fund to spread the word about the impact of philanthropy on campus. The aim is to welcome students into the alumni community before they even graduate, building a strong pipeline for the future.