CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) has surpassed a significant milestone in its fundraising efforts, exceeding $100 million in scholarship support through its “Our Tomorrow” capital campaign. The achievement, announced this week, promises to expand access to higher education for students at the public university and underscores a growing commitment to affordability in a challenging economic landscape. The campaign, launched in 2017, has generated $103.8 million to date, with funds earmarked specifically for student scholarships.
This surge in scholarship funding comes at a crucial time for many prospective college students and their families. Rising tuition costs and increasing student loan debt have made financial aid more critical than ever. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average federal student loan debt is $37,718 as of 2023 . UNI’s success in bolstering its scholarship offerings aims to alleviate some of that burden and ensure that qualified students aren’t priced out of a college education.
A Historic Fundraising Effort
The $103.8 million raised through “Our Tomorrow” is comprised of $69.5 million in outright donations and $34 million in planned gifts, demonstrating a long-term commitment from alumni and supporters. A substantial portion – $75.2 million – has been dedicated to establishing endowed scholarships, which provide a permanent source of funding for student aid. Endowed scholarships are funded by a principal investment, with the earnings used to support students in perpetuity.
Jim Jermier, vice president for university advancement and president of the UNI Foundation, highlighted the significance of the achievement. “Our Tomorrow represents the largest scholarship fundraising initiative in the university’s history,” he said in a news release. “And this momentum will continue to shape UNI’s future for generations to come.” The campaign’s success reflects a strong network of support, with more than 8,400 donors contributing to the cause.
Impact on Students and the UNI Community
The impact of the increased scholarship funding is already being felt on campus. UNI reports that nearly one in four students now receives a donor-funded scholarship. This translates to more students being able to focus on their studies without the added stress of financial hardship. The university has seen a steady increase in applications in recent years and officials believe the expanded scholarship opportunities will further enhance its ability to attract and retain talented students.
Beyond the direct benefit to students, the “Our Tomorrow” campaign too strengthens the university’s overall financial health and reputation. Increased philanthropic support allows UNI to invest in academic programs, faculty development, and campus infrastructure, creating a more vibrant and enriching learning environment. The campaign’s success can also serve as a catalyst for future fundraising efforts, attracting even more investment in the university’s mission.
Looking Ahead: Campaign Continues Through 2026
While the $100 million milestone is a major accomplishment, the “Our Tomorrow” campaign is not yet complete. Fundraising efforts will continue through June 2026, with a goal of further expanding scholarship opportunities and supporting other key university priorities. University officials are optimistic that they can build on the current momentum and reach even greater heights.
The university is actively seeking additional donations to support its scholarship programs. Information on how to contribute to the “Our Tomorrow” campaign can be found on the UNI Foundation website: https://www.uni-foundation.org/our-tomorrow. Donors can choose to support specific scholarships or contribute to the general scholarship fund.
The success of the “Our Tomorrow” campaign demonstrates the power of collective giving and the enduring commitment of UNI’s alumni and friends. As the university looks to the future, it will continue to rely on philanthropic support to provide access to quality education and empower the next generation of leaders.
UNI will provide updates on the campaign’s progress throughout 2024 and beyond. The next scheduled report on fundraising totals is expected in early spring 2025.
What do you think about UNI’s fundraising success? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and please share this article with others who may be interested in supporting higher education.
