Central Washington University hit a major milestone as it reached its goal of raising $21 million for scholarships, faculty enhancement and academic programs in the university's first, comprehensive campaign. "The Campaign for Central Washington University Transforming Lives" not only reached its target goal in less than three years, one full month before the campaign is set to wrap up, but the current sum also surpasses the initial goal of $18 million set at the formal campaign launch in 2005. Since the campaign began, Central has increased endowment levels by $5 million and the number of endowments by about 130 percent. Planned gift expectancies have increased more than $13 million, with much of that going directly to scholarships for students. More than 8,000 donors have contributed to the historic campaign at Central.

Central's "Transforming Lives" campaign began quietly in 2005. With the Crimson and Black Gala and a case statement and video outlining the campaign, the public phase of the campaign kicked off in October 2007. The campaign goal was revised to raise a total of $21 million at the end of the three-year period. Conversations with many graduates led Central to focus on four themes throughout the campaign-excellence, opportunity, innovation and the personal touch-all of which are common experiences shared by alumni when talking about their Central memories.

"Central continues to make its mark in an era filled with unprecedented opportunities and challenges," says McIntyre, who believes the extraordinary generosity of Central alumni and other contributors reflects the importance of the role Central has played in their lives. "It also shows that we're all a part of an institution that's committed to providing that same opportunity for the leaders of tomorrow."

Central's first comprehensive campaign officially ended June 30, 2008.  For all who took part in this inaugural campaign, thank you for helping us make history at Central.