Donations unlock a $200,000 fundraising match commitment, helping support study abroad experiences

The University of Colorado Boulder International Affairs Program recently reached a major milestone when it unlocked a $200,000 fundraising match commitment made by Chancellor Phil DiStefano last year. 

“The Program in International Affairs thanks the chancellor for challenging our community of supporters to create study abroad opportunities for our students,” said Thomas Zeiler, director of the Program in International Affairs. “The Global Grants Fund enables students to reach beyond CU and experience the world, making them truly global citizens.”

Reaching this goal, which generated a total of $400,000 for the International Affairs Program (IAFS) Global Grants Fund, is important because it showcases the impact of giving and highlights the work IAFS and Global Grants does for its students and their international educational experiences, which inspires further important work abroad.

In February 2022, DiStefano approved a match of $200,000 for all gifts of $10,000 or more made to the Global Grants Fund. The match ended in July, at which time nine donors had given a total of more than $200,000. 

With these funds, the Global Grants’ endowment is now more than $1.1 million. 

Global Grants support IAFS students participating in a CU Boulder Study Abroad program. They are need- and merit-based scholarships that help students gain meaningful global experience. Global Grant recipients have received awards to study in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Participating students have studied current events and issues in Bordeaux, France; locally led social and environmental projects in Mexico City; and methods for saving indigenous crops in Jaipur, India.

"Achieving the Chancellor's match is a testament to the enduring support and commitment of the International Affairs Advisory Board and alumni, who continue to meaningfully support the university,” said Evan Hanson, chair of the International Affairs Advisory Board. “Thank you all!"

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