University of Kansas Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little says the university’s efforts to raise higher education funds from private donors and research grants continue at a brisk pace, but she cautions that state support is still critical.

Gray-Little tells The Topeka Capital-Journal that while outside research grants hit record levels, further gains may be difficult because of federal budget constraints.

The university has recorded $957 million in private funds toward its goal of raising $1.2 billion by 2016 as part of its “Far and Above” campaign. Research funding topped $171 million in 2012, compared with $161 million a year earlier.

The chancellor says state support for higher education helps with fundraising efforts by demonstrating a partnership for improving the university.