Endowment assets rise 14.2 percent in a year

January 28, 2008
Endowment assets rise 14.2 percent in a year

By nancy seideman

Emory University’s endowment’s net increase was 14.2 percent for the year ending June 30, 2007, according to an annual review of university endowment performance issued by the National Association of College and University Business Officers.

The figures show that Emory’s endowment grew to $5.6 billion, ranking 17th among all colleges and universities. The annual investment return was 19.9 percent (before taking into account gifts and spending), while spending represented 4.4 percent of assets.

The total net change in endowment value is determined by netting the rate of investment return, withdrawals for spending, and gift contributions.

“Our rate of return is more competitive than ever with comparable institutions among the nation’s top 20 endowments,” says Mary Cahill, vice president for investments and chief investment officer.

“Diversification of our investment pool has moved us closer to the average of our peers, defined as institutions with assets greater than $1 billion. As our investment program continues to mature, we expect the portfolio to gain momentum and provide above average results over the long term.”