Ball State launches new capital campaign with $350 million goal

Ball State University has announced a new capital campaign.  As IPR’s Stephanie Wiechmann reports, it’s the first such fundraising effort in more than a decade.

Over Homecoming weekend, university officials launched the campaign called “Our Call to Beneficence,” named after the famous Daniel Chester French sculpture depicted in its logo.

The goal of the campaign is $350 million.  And the school says it’s already raised more than $225 million.

In a statement, Ball State says the funds will support student opportunity and success, the academic experience, and campus and community impact.  Within those goals, Ball State specifically mentions student scholarships, its signature “immersive learning” classes, and already-announced building projects like a performing arts center, renovations of existing academic buildings, and a redesign of the Village business district.

Ball State’s previous capital campaign, called “Ball State Bold,” was launched in 2008 and concluded in 2011.  It raised more than $210 million.

Ball State owns the broadcast licenses of Ball State Public Media, and the organization is partially supported by the university.  The newsroom is independent.

Stephanie Wiechmann is our Managing Editor and “All Things Considered” Host.  Contact her at [email protected].