The campus campaign received $2,273,822 in gifts or pledges from 2,770 participants in seven months. The goal was $2.1 million.

The announcement was made Sept. 27 during a luncheon at the Alumni Center, 2800 W. Bethel Ave., to thank volunteers and other participants.

Ball State President Blaine Brownell said the overwhelming support by faculty and staff was an indication of the strong feelings about the university and its role in higher education.

"This success is important, not only for the much-needed support for campaign objectives, but for the powerful. positive message it sends to our alumni and friends beyond the campus community," Brownell said. "The question becomes: ‘Do we have confidence in ourselves?' This sends the message that we do."

The Above and Beyond Campaign will raise $90 million for scholarships, assistantships, innovative academic programs and capital projects, including a new student center and stadium improvements.

During the campus segment of the campaign, a seven-member cabinet and 61-member committee met with groups across campus by department, area or office. There were about 87 group meetings and more than 1,000 emerti and retirees were contacted by mail and telephone. The largest individual gift was $100,000.

Campaign co-chairs are Erwin Mueller, Sursa Distinguished Professor in Fine Arts and professor in the School of Music, and M. Kay Stickle, professor of elementary education.

Campaign cabinet members are Deborah Balogh, dean of the Graduate School; Gary Santoni, George and Frances Ball Distinguished Professor of Economics; Don Mikesell, dean of students, Student Affairs; Nancy Behforouz, professor of biology; and Tom Mertens, George and Frances Ball Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Biology Education.

During Ball State's last capital campaign in the early 1990s, "Wings for the Future," about $1 million was raised by the campus community. Overall, the campaign raised $44 million, surpassing a $40 million goal.

More information about Above and Beyond may be found at the campaign Web site or by calling University Development at (765) 285-8261.

By Marc Ransford, Communications Manager

(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, contact Mary Ann Olinger, director of annual giving, at (765) 285-8261.)