Most successful campaign in Wooster’s history raises $147.9 million

WOOSTER, Ohio — The College of Wooster has raised $147.9 million in the most successful fund-raising effort in its 141-year history. With the help of nearly 14,000 donors, Independent Minds: The Campaign for Wooster surpassed its $122 million goal by almost $26 million. The campaign ran from July 1, 2000 to June 30, 2007.

The total raised included more than $49 million for six capital projects: two new student residence halls, a new academic building, new admissions and student wellness centers, and the $18 million renovation of Kauke Hall, the college’s largest academic building.

More than $56 million was added to Wooster’s endowment to support its human capital, including $28 million in new endowed scholarships and $12 million to endow seven professorships.

During the course of the campaign, the college received the three largest gifts in its history: $8 million from The Burton D. Morgan Foundation of Hudson, Ohio, $9 million from The Walton Family Foundation, Inc., and $10 million from Stanley C. and Flo K. Gault, both 1948 graduates of the college.

The mission of The Burton D. Morgan Foundation is to strengthen the free enterprise system, which Mr. Morgan believed to be America’s greatest asset, by investing in organizations and institutions that foster the entrepreneurial spirit.

The Walton Family Foundation was established as the culmination of the philanthropic interests of the family of Sam M. and Helen R. Walton. Rob Walton, chairman of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., attended The College of Wooster for two years before transferring to the University of Arkansas. He served as a trustee of the college from 1986 to 2001.

Stanley Gault, a former chairman and CEO of both Rubbermaid Incorporated and The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co., is an emeritus life member of Wooster’s board of trustees and served as chairman of the board from 1987 to 2000.

“The resounding success of the Independent Minds Campaign is a tribute to the thousands of alumni, parents, and friends who hold Wooster dear,” said R. Stanton Hales, whose retirement from the college’s presidency coincided with the June 30 conclusion of the campaign. “Diane and I have been privileged to experience — and honored to share — the deep affection that Wooster people have for this extraordinary place.”

The College of Wooster is an independent liberal arts college, nationally recognized for an innovative curriculum that emphasizes independent learning. Each Wooster senior works one-on-one with a faculty mentor to create an original research project, written work, performance or art exhibit. Founded in 1866, the college enrolls approximately 1,800 students.

» Independent Minds: The Campaign for Wooster Web Site