University officials said Monday that the five-year fundraising campaign, which ended June 30, brought in more than $44,190,423, exceeding their $40 million goal.
"I couldn't be more thrilled with the support that North Georgia has received throughout this campaign, especially during these tough economic times that have made student need so much greater," NGCSU President Dr. Bonita Jacobs said. "This is a tremendous achievement in the history of our university, and its success demonstrates the commitment of the NGCSU Foundation and the leadership of Mike Cottrell and Paul Stringer, who served as co-chairmen of the campaign. True leaders, they invested their hearts, minds, energy, and personal resources in this campaign to ensure its success."
Since The Campaign for North Georgia began in 2007, almost $7 million has been contributed specifically for student scholarships and 40 new scholarship funds have been established. Creating more scholarships is a top priority for Jacobs, who announced earlier this year the formation of the Steeple Scholarship, an annual scholarship fund that will be used to help students in a variety of programs meet the cost of college. The Steeple Scholarship Fund is named for North Georgia's most recognizable symbol, the gold-leafed bell tower located atop historic William Pierce Price Memorial Hall.
The catalyst for starting The Campaign for North Georgia was an unprecedented $10 million gift from Mike and Lynn Cottrell to support the university's school of business and the creation of the Center for the Future of North Georgia, which is an academic center that collaborates with regional economic development agencies to support existing and prospective industries.
"I am so proud to have been a part of this extraordinary accomplishment, but all the credit goes to the supporters who have recognized the tradition of academic excellence and leadership development that North Georgia represents," Cottrell said.
Less than 50 percent of the university's operating budget comes from state funds; the difference comes from tuition, fees and private contributions. Additionally, 85 percent of the university's freshmen receive HOPE scholarships, but changes to the program have meant smaller amounts for most students.
"The support and generosity of the alumni, friends and faculty and staff of North Georgia will make it possible to maintain programs like the Corps of Cadets, which has produced generations of military officers, and civilian leadership programs that have prepared professional leaders who make a difference in the communities they serve," Stringer said.
In May, university officials announced the public phase of the campaign, saying they needed to raise $4 million to reach their goal. They raised approximately two times that amount during the two-month span.
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http://accesswdun.com/article/2012/7/250496