Private donations to the University of Hawai'i's 10-campus system has surpassed $100 million since July 1, 2002, when the current Centennial Campaign fundraising effort began, the University of Hawai'i Foundation reported.

The milestone was reached on Dec. 31, the foundation said.

The total includes donations from more than 26,000 UH alumni.

"Higher education is a life-transforming experience, and we are inspired that so many individuals and organizations in Hawai'i share this belief and are willing to generously invest in our students, faculty and staff," said Donna Vuchinich, president of the UH Foundation.

Of the gifts, $31.5 million was directed for faculty and academic support, $26.1 million for student opportunities and $23.5 million for research.