In recognition of reaching its milestone 10th anniversary, the Okinawa Institute for Science and Technology (OIST), together with the OIST Foundation, launched last year its most ambitious fundraising campaign, with a goal of US$1 million.
Now, as we near the 10th Anniversary celebrations, OIST is thrilled to announce that it has surpassed its goal, so far receiving philanthropic gifts totaling US$1,064,034 from over 200 individuals, foundations, and corporations. The campaign is not yet over, and we seek support from donors to help accelerate OIST’s goals.
“We’d like to thank the individuals, organizations, and campaign committee members in the U.S., Japan, and beyond for their overwhelming and unprecedented generosity and support,” said Dr. Hiroyuki Fujita, Coordinating Co-Chair of the 10th Anniversary Campaign Committee and member of the OIST Board of Governors.
“As we all know, philanthropy drives innovation and excellence. These funds and the strategic connections they help build will vastly ensure the future success of OIST into the next decade and beyond.”
While funding from the Japanese government remains essential for OIST to achieve its day-to-day operations, private philanthropy helps boost OIST’s scientific and social impact and keeps the university at the forefront of scientific research and innovation.
The 10th Anniversary campaign has three core priorities, the first of which is environmental sustainability, which is a major strategic research priority for OIST. Donations to the campaign will accelerate efforts to address climate change, such as leading initiatives to help conserve and preserve Okinawa’s natural environment, including Yanbaru, in the north of Okinawa — Japan’s newest UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. OIST also plans to cement its status as a world leader for marine sciences, including launching a coral restoration fellowship and equipping the Marine Science Center with a scientific research vessel, diving facilities, and a state-of-the-art aquaculture system.'
The second funding priority is building bridges that link OIST with Okinawa, Japan and the rest of the world. Connections to the Okinawan community will be strengthened through educational programs for local school students, especially girls. Increased funding will also help OIST share its science and promote sustainability on the island through additional engagement activities. The campaign is also building bridges that connect the world with OIST and has played a vital role in fostering a relationship between Cleveland Clinic and OIST and supporting women in science via the Rita R. Colwell Impact Fund for the Advancement of Women in Science.
The third priority is to strengthen and diversify OIST’s revenue streams, which will help the university respond quickly and flexibly to changing needs. By developing endowed funds over time, OIST will be less restrained by the annual budget and can excel and innovate over the long term.
“Hitting US$1 million at this milestone point in OIST’s history is an enormous success and showcases the promise of OIST,” said Mr. David Janes, Chief Advancement Officer at OIST and President and CEO of the OIST Foundation. “Now we aim to build on this success to expand philanthropic opportunities that can benefit OIST.”
We invite you to support OIST’s mission of advancing knowledge for the benefit of humanity and help OIST achieve its full potential. If you are donating from the U.S., please give via the OIST Foundation. For donations from Japan and elsewhere, please give directly via Giving to OIST. Donations are tax-deductible and come with charitable receipts in the U.S. and Japan.
See OIST’s anniversary website for more information.
