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CU-Bloomsburg Launches Ambitious $100 Million Campaign to Shape the Future

Bloomsburg, PA (10/14/2024) — In a historic evening, Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg (CU-Bloomsburg) unveiled its largest fundraising initiative ever, The Campaign for Bloomsburg, setting an ambitious $100 million goal. This campaign, aptly themed "It Starts With Us," aims to provide transformative support for students and the university community, marking the largest fundraising goal in Bloomsburg's history.

"This campaign is about more than just a number-it's about changing lives," said CU President Dr. Bashar W. Hanna during the launch event. "The support we raise will provide scholarships, enhance academic programs, and ensure that every student has the resources and experiences they need to thrive. This is a pivotal moment for Bloomsburg, and we couldn't be more excited to embark on this journey with our dedicated alumni, donors, and friends."

The campaign's primary focus is aligned with three core pillars: Attract, Elevate, and Prepare. These pillars will ensure that Bloomsburg continues to recruit top-tier students, enhance the overall student experience, and equip graduates with the tools needed to succeed in their future careers.

"This is a transformational time for our institution," said Campaign Co-Chairs Julie Breiner '77 and Stephen J. Jones '83. "Through this campaign, we will elevate Bloomsburg's standing as a premier destination for higher education. It's about ensuring that students are supported not only financially but also academically and personally, so they can reach their fullest potential."

A highlight of the evening was the announcement of a $6 million gift from Steph and Allie Pettit to establish a new Center for the Arts at Bloomsburg University, bringing their total campaign support to over $20 million. This transformational gift will expand scholarships, performing arts resources, and creative spaces for students, underscoring the campaign's commitment to both academic and extracurricular excellence.

"The best way to thank us for our donations is to get involved," Steph Pettit said. "What we have given over the years sounds like a lot, but it is truly just a drop in the bucket compared to what the university and our students need to continue to be successful."

Student presenters Katie Starr and Christian Price offered heartfelt stories about how donor support has changed their lives.

"As a student-athlete, I've been able to pursue both my academic and athletic dreams thanks to the scholarships I've received," said Katie Starr, a psychology major and member of the Women's Basketball team. "This campaign will create new opportunities for student-athletes like me, and I'm so grateful for everyone who has supported us."

Christian Price, a junior Sales and Marketing major, added: "Your generosity has given me the chance to participate in life-changing experiences, like competing in a national sales competition and securing an internship. None of this would have been possible without the support of our donors."

With $73,959,509 already raised through the It Starts with Us Campaign for Bloomsburg, the university is inviting its entire community-alumni, friends, faculty, staff, and students-to be part of this historic effort. By contributing to areas of the university that resonate most with their passions, donors can help shape the future of Bloomsburg and create a lasting impact for generations of students.

As President Hanna concluded, "This campaign is about the power of collective action-the power of this incredible community to make a difference. Together, we are building the future, and it all starts with us."

For more information on The Campaign for Bloomsburg and how you can get involved, visit giving.bloomu.edu/ItStartsWithUs.

Media Attachments

Students perform at the Campaign for Bloomsburg launch on Friday, Oct. 11.

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