Goucher sees 40% return on endowment

Goucher College saw a 40% return on its endowment for the fiscal year 2021, which closed June 30, with the college’s total investments standing at approximately $259 million. The 40% return on investments puts Goucher well above the 31% reported by Cambridge Associates for endowments of a similar size (less than$300 million).

Goucher has outperformed its portfolio objectives, policy benchmark, and peers over a 10-year timeframe. Goucher College President Kent Devereaux has emphasized the importance of long-term endowment returns for several fiscal years.

“We take the long view, and our 10-year average annual return of 8.4% is also a strong signal of our endowment’s performance,” he said.

In fiscal year 2021, returns were led by strong performances in U.S. Equities, Resources, and Commodities, as well as outstanding returns on Private Equity investments.

The college continues to build on its strong foundation as a higher education leader and recently launched a new strategic plan to enhance student success, expand global education, and emphasize inclusivity. Goucher is also currently in the midst of a yearlong process to develop a new campus master plan, focusing on accessibility, sustainability, and connectivity to the community. In addition, earlier this year the college surpassed $72 million raised toward its $100 million [UNDAUNTED] comprehensive campaign goal.