More than 350 donors, faculty, staff and students celebrated the conclusion of "Above and Beyond: The Campaign to Advance Ball State University" Sept. 13 at a gala at the Alumni Center.

During "The Evening of Celebration," campaign chairman Oz Nelson outlined how the effort had raised funds for student scholarships, innovative academic programs and expanded campus facilities. The original goal was $90 million for the five-year campaign.

"Since the campaign was launched, Ball State has been forever changed -- strengthened, advanced and enriched," Nelson said. "Both the university's academic and physical landscapes have been transformed, creating a new sense of energy, connection, community and excellence.

"All those with a vision for excellence, a willingness to believe, a strong commitment and a generous spirit are helping to ensure that Ball State students will have an opportunity to receive an exceptional education and to pursue and achieve their dreams for years to come," he said.

The campaign has funded many projects, including Shafer Tower, Virginia B. Ball Center for Creative Inquiry, technology upgrades, student educational experiences, numerous scholarships, expansion of the football stadium and an athletic training facility.

Even with the official end to the campaign, the university will continue to seek support for projects that will have far-reaching impact on the experience of Ball State students, including scholarships, academic programs and capital projects, said Hudson Akin, executive director of university development.

"We still have a need for unrestricted gifts so that the university can respond to future needs, including student scholarships," he said. "As Ball State changes, those needs may be quite different from what they are today. An unrestricted endowment gives the university flexibility and ensures that it will be used for the university's best interest."

(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, contact Akin at hakin@bsu.eduor (765) 285-8261.)