Redbirds Rising campaign raises $180.9 million

Posted on July 22, 2020
The university’s president Larry Dietz said he is confident the level of investment from individuals and corporations has enhanced ISU’s position as a leader in higher education. (Facebook/Illinois State University)

 

By Neil Doyle

NORMAL – Illinois State University concluded its largest fundraising campaign at the end of June, raising $180.9 million.

Redbirds Rising: The Campaign for Illinois State started in 2013 with a goal of $150 million. The campaign’s public phase launched in 2017 and was supported by 56,143 donors.

“When Redbirds Rising began, we knew our goal was ambitious,” said ISU President Larry Dietz in a news release. “Over the course of the campaign, thousands of alumni and friends stepped up to the challenge, surpassing our target and making Redbirds Rising the University’s most successful fundraising campaign to date. I’m humbled by our shared success and grateful for the vote of confidence cast in the Illinois State experience.”

The campaign’s purpose was to elevate the level of scholarship, leadership, and innovation across ISU’s six colleges, athletics, the Division of Student Affairs, Milner Library, and public radio station WGLT.

Dietz said he is confident the level of investment from individuals and corporations has enhanced ISU’s position as a leader in higher education.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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