WesternU Capital Campaign Surpasses $35-Million Goal

POMONA, CA–(Marketwire – August 18, 2010) –  Western University of Health Sciences has surpassed its Capital Campaign goal of $35 million, but the work is far from over.

“We are very grateful for the support we have received for the Capital Campaign and, by extension, for our goal of building one of the most comprehensive academic health science centers in the nation,” said WesternU President Philip Pumerantz, PhD. “We also know that we must continue to build partnerships and raise awareness of our innovative programs, world-class facilities and skilled faculty and students.”

The Capital Campaign had a six-year goal of raising $35 million by WesternU’s 35^th anniversary in 2012, which was reached with two years to spare. The campaign has raised $36.5 million from about 1,600 donors as of July 2010. About $27 million has already been received, with the balance pledges to be paid before June 2012.

“This is real money that is in,” said Thomas Fox, PhD, Senior Vice President for Advancement. “Now we’ll see how far we can go.”

The Capital Campaign Case Statement set fundraising goals for specific categories, including $12.5 million for infrastructure, $8.75 million for student support and $7 million for faculty support. In the next two years, University Advancement will continue to raise money and ensure fundraising goals for each category are met, Fox said.

“Student scholarships are important. As we continue to emerge as a research organization, faculty support will be important,” he said. “With the Patient Care Center, health care strategy is another one we will look for as well.”

The Capital Campaign has reached out to new donors large and small. The $100 million campus expansion has helped raise interest in the Capital Campaign and provides many naming opportunities. The start of four new colleges in the past year allowed WesternU to tap into new prospects, Fox said.

“It is important to add donors,” he said. “We’re adding people who have never given to the university before. The message is getting out there.”