CSUCI, like an increasing number of public institutions of higher education, is "state-assisted" rather than "state-supported." As a young and growing University, CSUCI does not receive its total annual budget from the state. Private gifts, together with tuition and fees, earned income, and government grants and contracts provide the remainder of the budget.

Private gifts are not a substitute for state dollars. Rather, they help to provide needed resources and give us the flexibility to respond to opportunities, attract and retain outstanding faculty, staff, and students, and enhance educational programs and resources.