Our Challenge

 

Record-Breaking Gift is Only the Beginning

 

On October 4, 2006, filmmaker George Lucas did more than make history through the  Lucasfilm Foundation's $175 million gift to the School of Cinematic Arts. He also set forth a bold challenge to the community at large to support the school today and ensure the future of the art form for generations to come. That challenge plays out on two vital fronts: facilities and endowment.

Of the total gift, $75 million has been dedicated to erecting the new Cinematic Arts Complex. Beyond this generous initial gift, and the $50 million given by other friends of the school, the entire complex will require an additional $50 million to finish. This funding will allow for a number of infrastructure initiatives, including structures for Animation & Digital Arts, production services and soundstages.

The second part of the Lucas donation, pledged at $100 million, is dedicated to endowment. Such funds are vital to securing the long-term viability of any institution. In 1991 the school's endowment stood at some $6 million. Since then, Cinematic Arts supporters have generously contributed to this initiative, raising our balances to $47 million in received funds, with another $113 million in pledges. Together, that $160 million puts the school over three quarters of the way toward achieving its $200 million endowment goal. Through prudent management, the annual yield from this fund profoundly impacts the school on multiple fronts. Students enjoy enhanced academic and production support; faculty and staff have been bolstered; facilities, equipment and technology are kept at top-notch; and alumni receive guidance and support as they transition from their academic to career pursuits.

The success of any cinematic arts endeavor—film, television and interactive—stems not from the acts of a single person, but rather through the contributions of the greater community. In making their gifts to USC, supporters have set the school firmly on its course and created an incredible opportunity for others to be part of this extraordinary institution in the 21st century and beyond.

Contact:
Office of Development & Alumni Relations
900 West 34th Street
Los Angeles, California 90089-2211
213.740.2804 phone
213.740.7682 fax