When the College launched the public phase of the Campaign in 2019, more than $36 million had already been raised. Excitement continued to build as more than 8,000 alumni and friends came together to move Illinois College forward. Among them is Trustee Del Dunham ’72 who served as Campaign chair and who, with his wife, Lisa, made the lead gift for the first phase of the Crispin Hall renovation.

“I feel a deep sense of pride in the entire Illinois College community and how we responded to Inspiring Achievement — starting with the board of trustees and continuing with the faculty and staff and the entire IC alumni base,” he said. “Everyone who responded to the Campaign did so with excitement and confidence in the College and with a strong desire to put IC on course for a successful future of continuing to educate and empower young people as they prepare for their lives and careers.”

The Campaign is already making a resoundingly positive impact on students’ lives thanks to widespread support for its four pillars: recruiting and retaining students with scholarships, expanding opportunities for internships and hands-on learning, renovating academic and athletic facilities, and making an immediate impact through direct support for curricular and co-curricular programs.

“Reaching the conclusion of this historic campaign is about more than the financial support for Illinois College as an institution. It is about the inspiring and empowering work the College does each day — work the world needs now more than ever. Through Inspiring Achievement, our community answered a call to action to ensure future generations of students have access to the life-changing opportunities the College has long given its graduates,” President Barbara A. Farley said. 

The IC community will be celebrating the success of Inspiring Achievement throughout the academic year, Farley said. Events are planned around the country that focus on the Campaign’s overall impact. These events kicked off with a festive celebration that took place on campus on Oct. 21 in a transformed Bruner Fitness and Recreation Center. 

Look for more information from the College about the upcoming thank you events or visit ic.edu/IACelebration.