Forever Washburn surpasses $300 million milestone, fueling continued university growth

Topeka, Kan. - Washburn University and the Washburn University Alumni Association and Foundation are celebrating a significant milestone in their Forever Washburn campaign, surpassing $300 million in philanthropic support and making a lasting impact across the University.

Publicly launched in November 2024 and continuing into 2029, Forever Washburn is the largest comprehensive fundraising campaign in Washburn's history. The milestone reflects the extraordinary generosity of alumni, donors and friends who are investing in Washburn's students, academic programs, facilities and future.

From new and transformed campus spaces to expanded educational opportunities, the impact of Forever Washburn is taking shape throughout Washburn and the communities it serves. Yet, with the campaign continuing through June 30, 2029, there is still much to accomplish.

"Surpassing $300 million is an exciting milestone, but what makes this achievement truly meaningful is what it represents for our students and the future of Washburn," said Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek, president of Washburn University. "We are seeing the impact of philanthropy in the spaces where students learn and create, the opportunities that prepare them for successful careers and the scholarships that help make a Washburn education accessible and affordable. We are deeply grateful to the alumni and friends who believe in our mission, and we look forward to what we can accomplish together in the months and years ahead."

The impact of Forever Washburn can already be seen in physical changes across campus and beyond. The opening of the new Washburn Tech North campus earlier this year marked another significant investment in expanding educational opportunities and serving the region's workforce needs. On the main campus, Hurd Recital Hall, along with major renovations at Steve Anson Stadium and Lee Arena, highlighted the first year of Forever Washburn. Advisors Excel Hall is preparing to welcome students for classes in January, while construction of the Stormont Vail Health Clinical Institute of Excellence is set to begin in 2027.

Forever Washburn has reached far beyond the physical campuses. In fact, scholarship support has been the top choice of donors during the campaign to date with more than $110 million in new and future scholarship commitments to help Washburn continue its tradition of providing an affordable, high-quality education. Program and teaching support along with experiential learning opportunities have also received significant donor support.

"Behind the success of the last two years there are countless stories about people who care deeply about Washburn and want to make a difference," said Marshall Meek, president of the Washburn University Alumni Association and Foundation. "The $300 million milestone reflects the collective determination of our alumni, donors and friends, and the impact of their generosity is visible across our campuses and throughout our communities. We can't thank our donors enough for what has been accomplished so far, but we know the story of Forever Washburn is still being written. The Washburn community has indicated their desire to transform this University in profound ways, and I would never doubt a determined group of Ichabods."

As the campaign moves toward its June 30, 2029, conclusion, Washburn and the Foundation remain focused on building on this momentum and advancing the University's vision through scholarships, teaching and program excellence, real-world learning and service, and investments in campus spaces.

"Washburn's future is shaped not only by the projects we complete, but by the people we bring together and the opportunities we create," Mazachek said. "This milestone gives us an opportunity to celebrate the generosity behind our progress while looking ahead to the students, communities and generations of Ichabods who will benefit from it."

To learn more about the campaign, explore its impact and discover ways to get involved, visit wualumni.org/page/foreverwashburn.

-30-