Maisel Donation Highlights Record Fundraising
Posted on December 17, 2024 by Marketing and Communications
A $5 MILLION GIFT from Mobile businessman Elliot B. Maisel for the new Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine building highlighted record-breaking University of South Alabama fundraising — again.
South logged $45.3 million in new gifts and commitments for fiscal year 2024, the third year in a row crossing the $40 million mark. Fiscal 2024 brought 8,174 gifts and commitments from 4,960 donors, including 1,572 new donors.
Maisel’s gift is the largest by an individual for the $200 million building, now under construction. A large gathering area inside will be named the Maisel Family Forum.
“We are truly grateful for the transformational gift from Elliot Maisel,” says University President Jo Bonner. “Its impact will be felt not only in our local community but also statewide. Medical students at the Whiddon College of Medicine perform at the highest levels, outscoring their contemporaries at many of the most prestigious medical schools in the United States, and this new building will enhance learning opportunities in so many ways.”
Maisel notes that he encounters high recognition of USA when he travels. “So don’t
underestimate yourself,” he says.
“You’re big. We’re big. Think big. Be big.”