University of Dubuque Kicks off Capital Campaign

Jan 31, 2006 | University of Dubuque Theological Seminary

This afternoon, the University of Dubuque will announce the largest capital campaign in its 154 year history -- forever better: Ensuring the Mission. The goal -- to raise $125 million dollars as part of a long-term plan to build a solid financial foundation for the University's future.The announcement will take place at 4:00 p.m. in Blades Hall. 
 
"Much has been accomplished since the adoption of the Mission, Vision, and Action Plan in 1998," stated President Jeffrey Bullock. "But, there is much more to do if we are to become the place that our Missioncalls us to be.We are at a critical moment in our history -- this is the time to secure the University's ability to take a leadership role in the exciting opportunities that this new century presents." 
 
Since the Mission Statement was adopted in 1998, the University has made great progress on its transforming journey:

  • more than $85 million has been raised since 2001;
  • the endowment has grown from just $16 million to over $40 million;
  • academic programs have been strengthened, new programs have been introduced, and the number of full-time teaching faculty has almost doubled;
  • undergraduate enrollment has doubled;
  • the first phase of a Campus Master Plan has been launched and has steered the development of the South Campus.

 

Components of the Campaign goal include: 
 
The Mission and Vision Fund 
To increase the level of participation and to increase the Fund goal by 10 percent each year. 
 
Unrestricted annual support is an important element in helping to reduce the impact of the cost of education for students and their families. Also, foundations and corporations from whom the University seeks funding view the percentage of participation in the Mission and Vision Fund as a key measure of support for the Mission by those who are closest to it -- alumni/ae, faculty and staff, parents, and friends of the University. 

 

Endowment 
To raise $30 million in gifts to supplement the University's endowment, currently projected to be at $60 million by the end of the 2007-08 academic year. 
 
While modest in comparison to other leading institutions in Iowa, the University's endowment goal of $150 million is essential to its long-term financial health and vitality. 
 
Capital Projects 
To complete funding of new construction and renovation of the University Science Center as well as to complete and update Phase II of the Campus Master Plan. 
 
Projects currently underway include the expansion and renovation of the University Science Center, and the Myers Teaching and Administrative Center. Projects outlined in Phase II of the Campus Master Plan include additional student residences, a student center, the Center for Faith and Art -- a performing arts and worship center, and a recreation and wellness center. 
 
Building Relationships 
To increase support for the University of Dubuque from individuals, congregations, corporations, and foundations. 
 
Strong relationships between the University and alumni/ae, students, parents, congregations, and foundations are essential to the long-term vigor of the University. To be successful in the future, the University plans to strengthen these ties by revitalizing alumni/ae chapters, initiating a class agent program, and expanding a network of relationships with 100 additional congregations. 
 
"The Mission, Vision, and Action Plan has reconnected the University with its historic identity and is guiding its transforming journey," commented President Bullock. "We are centered on the lodestar of ourMission, believing that God has a purpose for this place, confident that at the University of Dubuque 'many gifts, one Spirit' will continue to be brought together for service to church and world-- forever better." 

 


For more information, please contact Kristi Brachman, director of public information, at 563.589.3267. 
 
For assistance in making a gift, please contact John V. Puotinen, senior vice president for advancement, at 563.589.3618.