Ball State University Achieves Record Breaking Fundraising Success for 2023 24 Fiscal Year

Topics: Alumni, Capital Campaign, Foundation, Giving, President

August 14, 2024

Ball State University achieved a fundraising milestone, securing more than $79 million in new gifts and commitments during the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2024.

This record-breaking achievement highlights the unwavering support of the University's graduates, friends, and partners, and significantly bolsters its mission of engaging students in experiences that empower them to have fulfilling careers and meaningful lives enriched by lifelong learning and service.

Ball State's $79 million in contributions during the 2023-24 fiscal year marks the sixth consecutive year of raising more than $30 million in new private, philanthropic gifts to the University. Prior to this streak, Ball State had not raised more than $30 million in two consecutive years.

"Because of the extraordinary generosity of our graduates and benefactors, we have achieved the best year of fundraising in our University's history," said Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns. "I am grateful for these philanthropic investments in our people-our students, our faculty, and our staff-which enable us to fulfill our vital mission and to transform lives."

One of the standout initiatives contributing to Ball State's fundraising success is the University's ongoing comprehensive campaign, Our Call to Beneficence, which is nearing the $300 million mark in secured gifts and commitments. Funds raised during Our Call to Beneficence will support initiatives to ensure student opportunity and success, enrich the academic experience, and expand Ball State's campus and community impact.

"The passion and dedication from our graduates and our benefactors have been very inspiring. Their contributions are not just financial; they represent a shared vision for the future of Ball State University," said Randy Pond, a 1977 Ball State graduate and chair of the Our Call to Beneficence executive campaign council. "Continued support will be crucial to reaching our ambitious goals and ensuring the lasting impact of our initiatives."

Key highlights of the 2023-24 fiscal year fundraising efforts include:

• Scholarships and Student Support: The University generated nearly $7 million in commitments for 35 new scholarships, providing critical financial support to students and making higher education accessible and affordable for many.
  
  
• Performing Arts Center (PAC): More than $47 million in secured commitments have been directed towards the new PAC, a state-of-the-art facility that will benefit students, faculty, and staff, as well as the community. Significant commitments from Ball Brothers Foundation, The Community Foundation of Muncie & Delaware County, George and Frances Ball Foundation, Lilly Endowment Inc., Tim Andrews, Marianne Glick and Mike Woods, Bob and Rhonda Kaspar, Pat Schaefer, and June Scheumann have been pivotal in advancing this project.

• Ryan Family Scholars and Navigator Program: Thanks to the generosity of Michelle (Asby) and Jim Ryan, the Ryan Family Scholars and Navigator Program at Teachers College continues to offer essential resources and guidance to students pursuing careers in education, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.

• Eric Foss Championship Performance Center: A $4 million gift from Eric Foss has laid the groundwork for the upcoming facility, which will be dedicated to fostering athletic excellence and providing student-athletes with top-tier training and performance resources.

• One Ball State Day: The University's annual day of giving continues to set new records. In the most recent event on April 3, 2024, more than $1.17 million was raised from 8,467 gifts by 6,301 donors, demonstrating the widespread support and engagement from the Ball State community.
  
  The University was again recognized by the CASE 2024 Circle of Excellence Awards for its outstanding fundraising and engagement initiatives, including top honors for One Ball State Day. These awards highlight Ball State's innovative approach to philanthropy and community involvement.
  
  Plans are underway for the next One Ball State Day on April 2, 2025.

"Our community understands that a Ball State degree can change the trajectory of a student's life," said Jean Crosby, president of the Ball State University Foundation and Alumni Association and vice president for university advancement. "Their gifts, along with the support of faculty, staff, and students, enhance our ability to provide scholarships, enrich academic and co-curricular programs, and increase our University's engagement with the community."

Established in 1951, the Ball State University Foundation supports the University, its mission, and its students by carefully stewarding, prudently investing, and strategically allocating private gifts for scholarships, faculty, and programs.

For more information, visit bsu.edu/foundation, call 765-285-8316, or email [email protected]. To support Ball State with a one-time or recurring gift, visit bsu.edu/give.