ATU raises $42 million toward $55 million goal in first ever capital campaign
by April 8, 2022 10:25 am 1,315 views
(from left to right) Jason Geiken, Arkansas Tech University vice president for advancement; Luke Duffield, co-chair for the ATU Together We Can campaign; Stephanie Duffield, co-chair for the ATU Together We Can campaign; and Dr. Robin Bowen, ATU president. (photo courtesy of ATU)
Officials with Arkansas Tech University on Thursday (April 7) announced that $42 million has been raised for the ATU Foundation during the quiet phase of the university’s first large capital campaign. Reaching the overall goal of $55 million is now part of the campaign’s public phase.
The “Together We Can” campaign for the Russellville-based institution founded in 1910 will provide money for scholarships, student success programs, innovation initiatives and the construction of a new student union and recreation center. The campaign began in 2018.
The existing student union, the W.O. Young Student Center, was opened in January 1959. With 9,640 students enrolled, ATU is the third largest university in Arkansas.
“Changing our region, our state, our nation and our world cannot wait,” Arkansas Tech University President Dr. Robin Bowen noted in a statement. “The time is now. Not tomorrow. Not next week. Today. I am very pleased to report to you that the alumni of Arkansas Tech University and others who recognize the importance of our mission have provided us with an incredible head start. We are Arkansas Tech University, and we will ensure that future generations enjoy the same high-quality, affordable education that has changed thousands of lives for the better.”
Co-chairs for the campaign are Stephanie Duffield, chair of the ATU Board of Trustees, her husband Luke Duffield, and attorneys Jim Smith and Rebecca Hurst from Fayetteville. Members of the steering committee are: Laurie Bibler of Russellville, Cynthia and Charles Blanchard of Russellville, Beth and Luke Bradshaw of Fayetteville, LaVel and Benny Harris of Russellville, Charlotte and Gerald Johnston of Springdale, Julie McNeill of Russellville, Bryce Mobley of Russellville, Harriet and Rick Thone of Russellville, and Leigh and John Whiteside of Russellville.
“Never before in the 113-year history of Arkansas Tech have we had an opportunity like the one that lies before us now,” said Stephanie Duffield. “By taking advantage of this opportunity and reaching our campaign goal, we will position Arkansas Tech and its students for success today and for generations to follow.”
Link here for more information about the campaign.