09 Sep Huntington University Launches $21m Capital Campaign

Huntington University launched a $21 million capital campaign to:

• Renovate Becker Hall (the former Administration Building).
• Build a new Studio Art Center.
• $9.5 million to expand the Merillat physical education complex.
• $3 million for the University Fund.
• $2 million for endowment.

“We must dream again,” said HU President G. Blair Dowden. “We need to expand and renovate and build.”

“Together: The Campaign for Huntington University” started in 2007 to improve and expand campus offerings and facilities. Over the past two years, the university has received $9.7 million in donations and pledges, resulting in:

• Construction of the Studio Art Center — a combination of the Art Annex building and a new 2-D studio.
• Renovations to Becker Hall, including refurbishing the entryway, adding an elevator, and renovating the third floor to create a film studio for the digital media arts program.

Work has also begun at the Merillat Complex. New bleachers were installed this summer. Additional plans include:

• Creating a new entryway.
• Expanding the exercise and weight-training areas.
• Adding new classroom and fitness lab spaces.
• Renovating the outdoor track.
• Constructing a new hardwood floor gymnasium.
• Installing all-weather turf on the soccer field.
• Funds for a facilities endowment.

The University Fund helps to bridge the gap between what students can afford and the financial aid available to them. Currently, 91 percent of the student body receives some sort of financial aid.

The endowment has a long-term impact by establishing scholarships, endowing faculty chairs, or supporting a particular program. It also helps supplement funds for the overall operation of the university.

Donations can be made to the university in various forms such as cash, appreciated securities, or real estate. The Office of Advancement will work with individuals to make sure that their gifts fulfill the donor’s wishes as well as the university’s needs.