Arkansas Tech University celebrated the completion of a comprehensive $55 million fundraising campaign with a reception attended by donors and ATU administrators on Tuesday, June 11, in the Hull Building Student Union.
Arkansas Tech University’s “Together, We Can” campaign raised funds for scholarships, student success programs, innovation initiatives and the construction of a new student union and recreation center.
“Together, we got it done,” said Dr. Russell Jones, ATU interim president, in his speech at the reception. “Tonight marks the final day of our Together, We Can campaign, but it’s only the beginning in terms of the positive impact your generosity and efforts will make. This is a great university. In many cases, this university represents a student’s only path to a better life through higher education. Let us continue to strive to be the best Arkansas Tech University can be, for the students of today and for the students of tomorrow.”
The silent phase of ATU’s first inclusive campaign was launched in 2018. By the time the public phase of “Together, We Can” was announced on April 7, 2022, $42 million had already been raised.
Additional donations over the past two years have helped the campaign reach its final goal of $55 million.
Jim Smith and Rebecca Hurst of Fayetteville and Stephanie Duffield and Luke Duffield of Russellville served as co-chairs of the campaign.
“There are so many good things that will come from the Together, We Can campaign and the funds raised,” Smith said. “New programs and initiatives will help graduates prepare for future careers and opportunities. The Ferguson Student Association will create a more cohesive campus community. Scholarships will help students realize the life-changing benefits of an Arkansas Tech education. Each and every one of you, and so many others, make all of this possible. Thank you for your support of Arkansas Tech. This is a special place, with special people.”
Additional members of the “Together, We Can” steering committee included the late Bryce Mobley of Russellville, the late James Bibler of Russellville, Laurie Bibler Terry of Russellville, Cynthia and Charles Blanchard of Russellville, Beth and Luke Bradshaw of Fayetteville, Lovell and Benny Harris of Russellville, Charlotte and Gerald Johnston of Springdale, Julie and Andy McNeill of Russellville, Harriet and Rick Thorne of Russellville and Lee and John Whiteside of Russellville.
“When we gathered at Tucker Coliseum in April 2022 for our campaign kickoff event, we discussed the word ‘opportunity,'” said Stephanie Duffield. “The timing was perfect for Arkansas Tech to launch its first-ever comprehensive campaign and make a positive, generational impact on our university. Together, we seized the opportunity and completed the most successful fundraising effort in ATU history. Together, we expressed our confidence in Arkansas Tech and our desire to see it continue to move forward for decades to come.”
For more information about Arkansas Tech University’s “Together, We Can” campaign, visit www.atualumni.com/together
