For Ever Better: The Campaign for the University of Rochester launches

The comprehensive campaign seeks to raise $1.75 billion for Rochester's future while expanding alumni and community engagement.

On September 18, during Meliora Weekend 2025, the University of Rochester publicly launched For Ever Better: The Campaign for the University of Rochester-its largest and most ambitious fundraising and engagement initiative ever. The $1.75 billion campaign, rooted in the University's Boundless Possibility strategic plan, seeks not only to raise critical funds but also to deepen connections across alumni, students, faculty, staff, and the broader community, amplifying Rochester's impact worldwide.

"This campaign will define our future and extend our legacy as a University community that embraces opportunities and challenges with bold ideas and an optimistic vision," says University President Sarah Mangelsdorf. "With this campaign, I look forward to advancing knowledge, enhancing care, and creating the environments and conditions that will allow everyone connected to the University to thrive."

"We have made remarkable progress during the campaign's leadership phase, as evidenced by three record fundraising years in a row," says Thomas Farrell '88, '90W (MS), senior vice president for University Advancement. "At the same time, we have seen the highest levels of alumni and other engagement in the University's history. It is important to President Mangelsdorf, and to all of us who care about the University's future, that this trend continue. Our progress in advancement mirrors the University's momentum, and we believe now is the right time to launch a campaign."

Leading up to the campaign's public launch, the University has raised more than $880 million toward its goals. Key objectives include establishing 150 endowed professorships and supporting more than 400 scholarships and fellowships to expand financial aid and ensure Rochester is accessible and affordable to all qualified students. The campaign will also reinforce the University's leadership in research and healthcare. This commitment is evident in Strong Memorial Hospital's expansion and the Wilmot Cancer Institute's recent National Cancer Institute designation.

Equally important, a special engagement initiative is a key part of the campaign. This includes a commitment to reach more than 250,000 alumni and friends-reconnecting with them, welcoming new supporters, strengthening relationships, and creating meaningful ways to participate throughout their lives.

A community celebration on Friday, September 19, during Meliora Weekend will highlight the campaign launch. The overall weekend is expected to draw more than 10,000 guests across University campuses for reunions, lectures, performances, athletics events, and family activities. The weekend also marks Rochester's 175th anniversary and the 100th anniversaries of the School of Medicine and Dentistry, Strong Memorial Hospital, and the School of Nursing.