CAMPAIGN NEWS
Thanks to gifts from alumni, friends and supporters, the multiphase Bright Futures Campaign now stands at more than $55 million raised in gifts and pledges for all components, capital projects, academic programs and university support.
$20 Million Student Center Goal Met! Thank You, MNU Supporters! The largest component of the comprehensive Bright Futures Campaign is now fully funded--thanks to the generosity of MNU donors who long to see a new student center built on campus. On January 8, 2020, supporters of the Cunningham Student Center met the $1 million challenge grant terms from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation by raising the final $11 million for the project in just one year. It was daunting to consider raising that much funding so quickly, but MNU organizers rallied the volunteer leadership of the Campaign Executive Committee. Chaired by Tim and Gail Buchanan and Dan and JoAnne Rexroth, the committee mobilized leaders to use their time, talents and influence to make introductions, hold in-home events and make presentations to individuals and organizations who could give. “The greatest takeaway from the Mabee Challenge phase of this campaign is that volunteer leadership and widespread support from our constituents made it happen,” says Dr. Jon North, vice president for university advancement. “We want to thank the many MNU friends, alumni, parents, faculty and staff, trustees, the Foundation Board, the Campaign Executive Committee, the Mabee Foundation, and donors who support our mission and gave to the project.” A groundbreaking ceremony is planned for August 28, after students return to campus. The act of beginning
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ACCENT MAGAZINE - SUMMER 2020
construction when the first scoop of dirt is moved will be exciting. It will be the start of a dream realized. “This process began with the students and their hopes and dreams for this building,” President David Spittal says. “The visibility and natural light throughout the building will be incredible. It’s going to give students and all of us options. Options for dining, meeting, collaborating and enjoying our beautiful campus together. When completed, this building will just hum with activity and vitality.” Currently the building is slated to be complete in December 2021 with a fitting celebration to open the building as soon as possible thereafter.
