Vanderbilt University is reporting growth in general fundraising despite alumni threats to pull their support. At issue is a controversial “all comers” policy that bars student groups from requiring leaders to hold certain beliefs.

Fundraising from alumni in the most recent fiscal year approached $128 million – $3 million more than the year prior.

Vanderbilt vice chancellor for public affairs Beth Fortune says the number of people giving to the university also increased. Ten percent more alumni are now donors, she says.

“It’s certainly possible that while there were those individuals who indicated they would not give to Vanderbilt anymore because of the non discrimination policy issue, there are a number of individuals who decided to give perhaps for the first time.”

There are hundreds of student groups on campus, but 15 have decided not to comply with newly-enforced rules, including Vandy Catholic and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

School officials say the groups are still being allowed to meet on campus, but they can no longer use the Vanderbilt name or have access to university funding.

Web Extra

Fundraising totals provided by Vanderbilt:
2012 $127.9 million
2011 $124.5 million
2010 $125.9 million

Student group breakdown:
Registered student organizations – 465
Registered religious student organizations – 27
Non-registered religious student organizations – 15