Monmouth University Launches Most Ambitious Fundraising Campaign in its History

Monmouth University announced the launch of a $175 million comprehensive campaign, Excellence. Access. Ambition. The Campaign for Monmouth University, at its annual holiday gala on Dec. 7. The University begins the public phase of its campaign, which is the most ambitious fundraising effort in Monmouth's 91-year history, having already raised more than $140 million toward its $175 million goal, since embarking on the quiet phase of the campaign in 2020.

The comprehensive campaign supports goals outlined in the University's Strategic Plan that will enable Monmouth University to become a national leader at integrating excellence and access. The University identified three funding priorities for the campaign: (1) enhance campus facilities that support its mission; (2) endow academic excellence and student access; and (3) enrich learning opportunities through annual fund support.

The University has committed to strategic investments in campus facilities as part of the campaign, creating an exceptional learning environment and strengthening the Monmouth experience. Plans include two new major building projects expected to open in 2026: the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music, and the Student Wellness Center, a dynamic expansion of the OceanFirst Bank Center's health and fitness facilities; as well as significant enhancements to existing living and learning spaces.

The campaign also directly supports endowments for student financial aid, faculty development, and innovative academic programming to attract and support first-rate students and faculty. Monmouth received the largest single gift in its 91-year history, an outright gift of $21 million from an anonymous donor, in March 2023. The gift helped establish a new scholarship program to aid undergraduate students who meet specific academic and financial criteria by helping provide access to a private university education that would otherwise be financially challenging or unattainable for them.

Bolstering the University's annual fund is also a key priority of the campaign. Annual support provides resources that directly benefit today's students by meeting immediate needs for scholarships, student programming, hands-on learning opportunities, and general enrichments to campus life. Increased annual funds help Monmouth respond to emerging opportunities and challenges, preparing students for successful careers after graduation.

The campaign is co-chaired by emeritus trustee Henry D. Mercer, III '87, '17HN, and his wife, Joan, both of Locust, New Jersey. Henry Mercer served as chair of the Monmouth University Board of Trustees from 2014 to 2017.

"Excellence. Access. Ambition. underscores Monmouth University's unwavering commitment to transforming students' lives and creating a more equitable and innovative future in higher education," Henry Mercer said.

Monmouth University President Patrick F. Leahyannounced the $175 million campaign on Dec. 7 to approximately 250 supporters gathered for the 50th annual Gala at the Great Hall. "Our bold aspirations for the campaign will ensure that a Monmouth education remains within reach for deserving students regardless of their means, and advance our goal to make Monmouth University a national leader at integrating excellence and access," Leahy said.

For more information about the campaign priorities and ways to give, visit the Excellence. Access. Ambition. campaign website, or contact Amanda Klaus, vice president for university advancement, at [email protected].