The University of North Alabama has crossed the $100 million mark in the largest fundraising campaign in university history, and donors still have six weeks to add to the total.
UNA announced its “Shine On, Gold” comprehensive campaign has raised $104.35 million, surpassing its $100 million goal ahead of the campaign’s Sept. 30 conclusion.
“This is an historic day in the life of our institution,” UNA President Dr. Ken Kitts said. “The $100 million goal, while ambitious, proved within reach of our generous donors, who were with us each step of the way and who supported UNA broadly across each of the seven stated priorities that will have a long-term, positive effect on the University.”
The campaign publicly launched during UNA’s Homecoming celebration in September 2023 with seven fundraising priorities.
Among the biggest successes are student scholarships, which have raised more than $24.1 million against a $15 million goal, and Bank Independent Stadium, which has topped its $30 million target with more than $30.7 million raised.
The Fine and Performing Arts Enhancement Plan has nearly doubled its $1 million goal, reaching $1.99 million. The Presidential Scholars Program has raised more than $6.36 million, while the Aubrey and Annie Loonie ROAR Access Center has brought in more than $1.4 million.
Fundraising continues for the $3 million 1830 Fund, which stands at more than $2.82 million, and donor-directed purposes, which have raised nearly $36.9 million toward a $44 million goal.
“The response from our donors has been truly remarkable,” said Kevin Haslam, vice president for advancement and executive director of the UNA Foundation. “This campaign has been, and will continue to be, truly transformational in the lives of our students, faculty, and staff.”
The $104 million total easily surpasses UNA’s previous fundraising record. The university’s last comprehensive campaign, which concluded in 2018, raised about $36.7 million.
The current campaign began its quiet phase in 2021 before its public launch two years later.
Shine On, Gold will officially conclude Sept. 30, with a campaign celebration scheduled for Sept. 18. Donors contributing $100 or more will be recognized on the Campaign Donor Wall.
“There is still time for those who have not participated in the campaign to do so,” Haslam said. “Our greatest desire is for everyone to know they are wanted and welcome and that their generosity will make a difference.”
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