Clemson fundraising campaign hits $500 million

Published: June 1, 2011

CLEMSON — The Will to Lead: A Campaign for Clemson has surpassed $500 million. As of Wednesday, the total is $503.3 million. The fundraising initiative supports students and faculty by providing scholarships, fellowships, professorships and enhanced learning and research opportunities with top facilities and technology.

Last August university officials launched the public phase of the capital campaign with a goal to raise $600 million in private gifts and commitments by June 30, 2012.

Response during the campaign's early, quiet phase was so strong in spite of the economic times the volunteer leadership increased the initial working goal of $500 million to $600 million.

"I am very proud of the way supporters are investing in the future of the university and in the future of Clemson students," said Trustee Smyth McKissick, a 1979 Clemson graduate and chairman of the national campaign committee. "This $500 million commitment by so many generous donors exemplifies the confidence that these folks have in President Barker, his leadership team and Clemson's plan for the future."

As a consequence of deep, recession-induced cuts in funding from the state legislature and an unwavering desire to deliver on Clemson’s commitments to its students and the State of South, Clemson President James F. Barker focused the campaign even more sharply on funding core mission-related priorities: namely on students and faculty. 

"It's about changing lives," Barker said. "When you put great students together with great faculty members, very important and significant things happen. Clemson needs private support to stay competitive in offering a great student learning experience, and in the research that leads to innovation and economic development."

Since the initial phases of the Will to Lead capital campaign began in July 2006, 273 scholarships and fellowships and 89 endowed chairs, professorships and other funded faculty support programs have been established.

"We are very grateful to all of the donors and volunteers who helped us reach this campaign milestone. Clemson people have responded because they understand the stakes are high," Barker said. "This is about investing in the future of our young adults, our state and our nation."

Brian O'Rourke, director of development and alumni affairs, said more than half of all major gifts received during the campaign are first-time major gifts.

"This means Clemson supporters are stepping up to support our students, faculty and staff," he said. "Our need continues to be great. It will take all of our alumni, parents and friends to join us to make this effort successful. We owe it to the students of today and the future to be successful."
 
Jim Creel, chairman of the campaign planning task force, member of the Clemson University Foundation board of directors and a 1960 graduate of Clemson, stressed the critical ongoing importance of the Will to Lead campaign.
 
"We need Clemson's determined spirit to be successful," he said. "Recent economic difficulties have only heightened our awareness of the vital role of higher education and Clemson University in assuring that South Carolina and our nation have the human, intellectual and moral resources to compete in a rapidly changing global economy."

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