During the social upheaval of the 1960s and '70s, Sterling College, a traditional Presbyterian College in Kansas, suffered a declining enrollment, as did many other small church-based liberal arts schools at that time. By 1981, enrollment had fallen to some 500 students, debt was mounting and the College's donor constituency was not giving as it had in previous years. Following two very crucial capital campaigns which alerted supporters of the financial crisis and informed them of the school's long-range goals, interest in Sterling College was dramatically renewed. Today, enrollment has doubled to over 1,000 students, the church body stands squarely behind Sterling, there is increased pride in the College among alumni and friends and annual giving is way up. Of greatest significance, Sterling has been able to refocus on what is most important: providing its students with an ethical foundation and with the broad base of knowledge and critical thinking skills that are so essential to success in today's world.

What Made It Happen?

Providing fundraising counsel to Sterling for seven years. Skystone Ryan is proud to have helped the College weather these difficult times. Perhaps the most pivotal service provided was help in developing a long-range plan, which detailed the College's capital needs as well as a fundraising strategy for meeting them.

Before the first of two planned capital campaigns could be launched, a broad spectrum of prospective donors had to be educated about the challenges facing the College and motivated to give their support. A remarkably successful special event weekend was held, featuring Paul Harvey as keynote speaker and a host of activities showing the College to its best advantage, emphasizing the importance of Christian higher education and laying out the plans for Sterling's future.

The subsequent two campaigns raised $7 million for capital improvements and additional endowment for scholarships. Success built upon success. The annual fund doubled in one year. Presbyterian congregations throughout Kansas gave their support and reclaimed the College with newfound pride. In addition, the positive public relations gained throughout the entire venture has led to increased student enrollment and a renewed commitment to providing a first-rate Christian liberal arts education to the young people of Kansas and beyond.