Open Windows Campaign Successfully Concludes Early
Alma College has successfully completed its largest fund-raising campaign in its history more than nine months ahead of schedule.
The $35.25 million Open Windows Campaign, launched in 2004 with a public rollout in 2006, was created to strengthen student opportunities that build upon and enhance classroom learning. As of Sept. 30, 2009, a total of $37.3 million in gifts and pledges has been raised.
The planned five-year campaign was scheduled to continue through June 30, 2010.
Board Chair Candace Dugan and President Saundra Tracy stand on the stairs in the lobby of the Heritage Center following the unveiling of a banner announcing the successful conclusion of the Open Windows Campaign during a reception Oct. 2.
"Completion of the largest fund-raising campaign in Alma's history in these economic times is a strong testament to the faith friends and alumni have in Alma College," said Alma College President Saundra Tracy. "We are deeply appreciative of the support.
"The resources generated by this campaign allow Alma College to be extremely well positioned among our peers with distinctive opportunities, facilities and educational experiences for our students. These gifts have helped us gain the momentum we are enjoying and to come out of the economic downturn from a position of strength," said Tracy.
The success of the Open Windows Campaign is based on the belief of the outcomes of the student experience at Alma, said Carol Hyble, vice president for advancement.
"The transformation of our students from freshman year to graduation is stunning," she said. "Students leave here prepared to take their place in the world.
"Alma College has been an amazing liberal arts institution for 123 years and exists because of a strong legacy of stewards who believe in the College and make it a priority," said Hyble. "Throughout this campaign, we have increased scholarships, endowed funds and estate commitments. We have raised funds in support of all of our fund-raising goals, including academic programs and opportunities, the Center for Responsible Leadership, collaborative research, campus facilities, athletics, the performing arts, and the Alma Fund, which helps support the day-to-day operational costs of the College."
The campaign sought to "open windows of opportunities" for students " a phrase that was adopted as the official campaign theme, said Mart Johnson, former board trustee who has chaired the campaign throughout its duration.
"This campaign has strengthened the foundation of our core values of student-centered education, engaged learning, a strong belief in a liberal arts preparation, and preparing ethical leaders for the 21st century," said Johnson. "It has opened new windows of opportunities for our students to help them find, pursue and create their paths to success."
The campaign resulted in a number of fund-raising gains for the College:
- 9,936 donors — encompassing individuals as well as organizations ” contributed to the campaign.
- 101 new estate commitments were established.
- 57 new endowed scholarships were established.
- 12 new endowed funds were established.
Facility enhancements were completed, including the construction of Wright Hall and renovations to McIntyre Mall — the center campus pathway — and the Hogan Center.
The College continues to raise funds for the Hogan Center building project. A $5.5 million fund-raising goal is established for the construction of the 29,000-square-foot athletics arena/convocation center.
"The campaign has produced the resources that enable us to provide quality academic programs, critical financial aid that allows talented young men and women the opportunity of an Alma education, and technology improvements that enhance learning," said Candace Croucher Dugan, chair of the Alma College Board of Trustees. "The early conclusion of the campaign is concrete, tangible evidence of the confidence, optimism and faith that our alumni and friends hold in Alma College."
Posted: Sun, October 11th, 2009 at 2:43PM
