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Indiana State University Foundation

Challenge

An inaugural campaign is always a significant undertaking for any university, but as a public institution, Indiana State and the Foundation also faced a unique challenge in communicating the importance of private philanthropy to its mission and future.

Indiana State also underwent a transition in the University presidency at a critical early stage of the campaign—just before the Great Recession, amplifying the challenges facing the campaign’s leadership and progress.

Process

Campbell & Company saw Indiana State’s first-ever comprehensive campaign as an opportunity not only to secure major gifts for the institution but to guide the University and Foundation to a higher trajectory in fundraising.

Following an initial philanthropic market study, we began developing a plan to realize Indiana State's short-term fundraising potential and build a stronger development program to drive the Foundation beyond the campaign.

Campbell & Company advised Indiana State in evolving the Foundation’s governance structure and practices to function as a true independent foundation. The Campbell & Company Executive Search team then completed a successful search for the first-ever Foundation President.

When the University’s leadership transition and the challenging economic climate brought to light questions about the campaign’s future, we worked directly with staff and Board leadership to keep the campaign moving forward.

“Campbell & Company helped us implement best practices, minimize setbacks, and sustain momentum through our first-ever comprehensive campaign.”

-R. Steven Brown, Former Vice President of Development, Indiana State University Foundation

In 2009, the University and Foundation announced the public launch of MARCH ON! The Campaign for Indiana State University, with $77 million raised to date toward an ambitious goal of $85 million.

As of Feburary 1, 2012, the University and Foundation closed its first campaign with an attainment of $86.7 million. This comprehensive campaign will make transformative investments in student financial aid, faculty and program support, and campus facilities.