University of Oklahoma - Norman, Oklahoma
Reaching for Excellence
One-year into his tenure as President of the University of Oklahoma, David Boren had defined his vision for the University: to become a national role model for public higher education. Building on his long experience as Oklahoma's Governor and U.S. Senator, President Boren believed that there was nothing more important to the continued success of America than the effective education and mentoring of the next generation. He also knew that public higher education would become increasingly important as the primary way for many of the nation's most gifted students to receive a post-secondary education.
To achieve his vision, President Boren outlined a process of dynamic growth and prosperity for the multi-campus, 19 college state University. Keys to accomplishing the vision included strengthening funding for faculty, improving facilities and resources for learning and research, providing scholarship funds for dedicated students to pursue their dreams, and extending the University's public service mission through new initiatives such as the International Studies program.
With President Boren's leadership and the enthusiastic support of the University's Board of Regents, The Reach for Excellence Campaign was begun to raise $200 million in private support by the year 2000. The largest effort of its kind in the history of Oklahoma, the Campaign overwhelmingly surpassed its goal by raising a total of $508 million. From the vision of one man and the efforts of leaders across the country, the University of Oklahoma proudly distinguishes itself as a role model for excellence in public higher education.
What Made It Happen?
Upon the announcement of President Boren's $200 million vision, the University development staff began putting in place the components of a major fundraising campaign that would elevate their efforts to new heights. They sought assistance from Skystone Ryan to build a campaign plan, create an infrastructure, and develop nationwide fundraising strategies. The firm also facilitated the University in the formation of the National Campaign Committee - a group of alumni and friends that brought experience, enthusiasm, and financial support to the Campaign. With ongoing professional guidance, The University of Oklahoma used the Campaign as a stimulus to identify nearly 300 new major gift donors that will continue to support the foundation that The Reach for Excellence Campaign has laid for the future of the University.
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