A weak stock market has resulted in lowered returns on college endowment investments. Many institutions had funds tied up in American stocks and bonds, which performed poorly. Although most institutions say their endowed programs or scholarships are not adversely affected, some programs are being reduced or eliminated as a result. (MSE)

The National Association of College and University Business Officers' annual survey of 1996 college endowment performance found the rate of return up 15.5% from the previous year, the best since 1986. The average institution had 51.6% of endowment in domestic stocks, 25.5% in domestic fixed-income investments, 9.5% in foreign stock, 5.4% in cash…

Two studies found that, although the nation's wealthiest gave a smaller proportion of earnings to charity in the 1980s, the number of wealthy donors has increased. Tax law changes had less effect than predicted. Generosity appears divided between a few who give a lot and many who give little. (MSE)

Private giving to colleges and universities increased 4 percent in 1990-91, less than the previous year's 10 percent. For some, fund raising was better than anticipated, but some generally successful fund raisers experienced declines. Private giving is more crucial than ever because public funds and tuition income are not increasing as in the…

Corporations increased their giving to schools, colleges, and universities in 1993 by the biggest margin in four years, with the increase outpacing inflation. However, some warn that this should not be interpreted as a return to widespread corporate giving. Donations in 1994 are likely to increase only slightly, if at all. (MSE)

Both public and private higher education institutions say the recession is prompting increased enrollment in part-time training programs as adults prepare for new jobs. A danger is seen in institutions relegating continuing education to the role of surplus revenue generation. Greatest growth is in computer training, human-resource management,…

National trends in private support of colleges and universities indicate increased giving, but at rates barely above inflation. Data are presented on trustee gifts, dollar totals and averages by institution type in 1991-92 and 1992-93, and top 20 institutions in total giving, alumni donations, total giving per student, and alumni giving per…

The successful conservative administrative strategies of four private colleges (Claremont McKenna College, California; Connecticut College; Livingstone College, North Carolina; Northwestern University, Illinois) in a climate of widespread institutional cutbacks are described. They include investment, avoidance of administrative "bloat,"…