In early January, R.E.A.L. Bears were on hand to help celebrate the monumental success of the Missouri State University’s largest and most ambitious fundraising campaign to date.

Our Promise: The Campaign for Missouri State University was a tremendous effort to improve and reshape many aspects of the university. The campaign’s proposed goal was $125 million, and on January 11, Missouri State announced that the campaign had exceeded expectations by achieving a remarkable $167,000,783 in gifts and commitments. The campaign and incredible outpouring of support from 73,270 donors supported 29 capital projects, including the John Q. Hammons Arena, The Foster Family University Recreation Center, McQueary Family Health Science Hall, and many others.

The Our Promise Campaign was directly tied to the university’s public affairs mission, which aims to make the world a better place and to create culturally competent students. Since strong financial aid for the student body is key in achieving Missouri State’s mission, the campaign will have a large impact. With $20 million dedicated to scholarships for students, Missouri State will be able to enroll the most talented, dedicated, and promising students as well as keep tuition lower. Since the campaign launched, more than 375 new scholarships have been established, providing financial aid for over 8,000 students.

“It is amazing to see the outpouring of private support for Missouri State, and even though the campaign has concluded, we are still raising money since there are many new goals and new initiatives to fund,” said Brent Dunn, vice president for university advancement. “We will always need to increase scholarship support for students. The Our Promise Campaign will help us raise even more private support in the future as we expand our outreach nationally and around the world.”

R.E.A.L. Bears got to celebrate with MSU by being featured in the photograph commemorating the accomplishment and by having the opportunity to meet and thank donors at foundation events on January 11 when the campaign total was revealed.

The Our Promise Campaign was a momentous accomplishment for the university. With amazing widespread support from donors, Missouri State will continue to provide the best education and opportunities possible to ensure a bright future for each and every student.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tyler Durham; Nixa,MO
Music Composition and Electronic Arts Major