The University of Idaho says it has reached a major fundraising milestone, after a decade-long drive.

The U of I on Tuesday reported reaching the $500 million goal for the largest campaign in school history — known as Brave. Bold. Unstoppable.

The campaign, launched in 2015, earmarks $240 million for academics and research; $150 million for student scholarships; and $95 million for facilities, outreach and other priorities.

The University of Idaho campus. (Photo courtesy University of Idaho)

“This record-breaking achievement is a testament to the unstoppable momentum of the University of Idaho and the unwavering belief in our mission as Idaho’s land-grant institution,” U of I President C. Scott Green said in a news release. “Surpassing the largest philanthropic campaign goal in state history is more than a milestone — it’s a statement. Our Vandal family has shown that when we invest in education, research and innovation, we are building a thriving Idaho and world for all.”

University officials had hoped to hit the $500 million fundraising mark by the end of 2025.

A two-day, 1,889-minute fundraising drive pushed the U of I to its milestone.

The university raised more than $1.28 million from its Vandal Giving Day drive, topping last year’s contributions by more than $150,000.

The number of donations also increased this year. The U of I received 2,411 donations — mostly from Idaho and Washington, but some from as far as France, Australia, Wales and Chile.

 

Kevin Richert

Kevin Richert

Senior reporter and blogger Kevin Richert specializes in education politics and education policy. He has more than 35 years of experience in Idaho journalism. He is a frequent guest on "Idaho Reports" on Idaho Public Television and "Idaho Matters" on Boise State Public Radio. He can be reached at krichert@idahoednews.org

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