Trine sets fundraising record with $20 million

Gifts and pledges from a large variety of sources have vaulted Trine University to a new record in fundraising for the 2013-14 academic year.

The university raised nearly $20 million, surpassing by a third the previous record of just over $15 million in the 2006-07 academic year.

"Trine is so very thankful for the unprecedented support of the university and our mission from so many friends, individuals and organizations," said Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., Trine president. "Knowing that so many others embrace our students and our programs is gratifying. Fundraising of this magnitude ensures Trine can continue to offer the best learning environment and experiences for our students."

More than 3,100 donors – trustees, friends, alumni, parents, foundations, organizations, companies and faculty and staff – are the reason for the success.

"It's exciting to be a part of this monumental fundraising milestone as both an alumnus and trustee," said Rick L. James, chair of the Trine University Board of Trustees and Campaign Committee chair. "This new record reflects the continuing diligent efforts of many determined individuals with whom I am fortunate to work. Support from so many different people and organizations is much appreciated – we couldn't do this without them."

Cash gifts to Trine increased by 65 percent while endowed giving experienced a 60 percent gain. In all, the total activity doubled from $10 million to $20 million. Trine credits meaningful engagement, generous support from donors and more estate gifts and pledges for these increases.

Various initiatives and gifts for projects, buildings and endowments also fueled the gain. Both the annual scholarship golf outing and Black & White Scholarship Gala set records, too. More than $85,000 for Trine scholarships was raised during the Alumni & Friends 23rd Annual Scholarship Golf Outing last August. In February, the university shattered the record for the most money raised during a single event when it raised more than $450,000.

Trine is also in the midst of its Invest in Excellence capital campaign. To date, $45 million has been raised, putting Trine at 60 percent of its $75 million goal. This campaign will support the annual fund, provide capital for renovation of Ford and Hershey halls and increase institutional endowment.

Such fundraising enabled Trine to invest nearly $13 million in facility construction, renovation and laboratory expansion. Most noticeable are the new T. Furth Center for Performing Arts, which was dedicated last Friday, May 2; and the Jim and Joan Bock Center for Innovation and Biomedical Engineering, which was dedicated in October.

Other campus enhancements include new laboratories for science in Best Hall, upgraded and new laboratories and equipment for engineering and Innovation One in Fawick Hall and the Bock Center, and improvements in student housing and the athletic facilities.

Trine will soon begin a $4.5 million renovation project for the exterior and interior of Ford Hall, home of the Ketner School of Business, and a new $4.5 million, 100-bed apartment-style residence hall to open in fall 2015.

So, while most students are away, Trine will continue to improve its campus thanks to generous donors and supporters.