The word transform evokes the feeling of intense change and newness. The term "transforming" is even more powerful, because it indicates action, which is why as of June 2007 Kean University has announced their new Transforming Lives Campaign. This campaign is a basic message about the goals of the University. It's the first ever comprehensive campaign the University has done.The Transforming Lives Campaign was officially announced at the 10th Annual Gala and was described as a goal to raise $30 million from private philanthropic sources toward a campus-wide $350 million investment. The people responsible for the development of the campaign include members of the Board of Trustees, Board of Directors, a dozen campaign steering members, and Chairman Lowell Harwood.
The campaign was organized in November 2005 and will run until December 2009. There are six areas which the campaign seeks to strengthen at the University. By committing to these six areas, The Foundation believes these areas will make Kean University an even more reputable educational institution in New Jersey.
The six areas include increasing scholarship support, science and technology, history, visual and performing arts programs, establishing the renowned Human Rights Institute, and enhancing the Global MBA Program.
Students, this campaign is important! The main focus is on you and your education. Without the money donated, tuition would be much higher than it is currently and students would not be able to get as many scholarships. There would not be as much financial support without private philanthropic support. This campaign can increase your opportunities. Students and faculty will benefit tremendously, whether it's from the enrichment of the Visual and Performing Arts Programs, Science and Technology Programs, more scholarships, or from the improvement of the Nathan Weiss Graduate School. It is something to be concerned about because it has a direct effect on you. Even if you are not here in December 2009, simply being a college graduate of such a profound University is something you can proudly say.
Even though the campaign is fairly new, it has already raised an astounding $15 million. This year alone, The Foundation is expecting 6,000 gifts, and the number continues to rise. Although the goal is $30 million, there is a possibility for the goal to be raised substantially by the end of December 2009. The way in which donations can be made is through emphasizing the kinds of programs that will be available through this campaign for students. Those programs may be directly affected by the campaign's success such as the School of Visual and Performing Arts and Science and Technology programs will be put to the forefront of spreading awareness. Alumni can also be a key factor, especially those who have ties to the University and donate for the betterment of it. Corporations, friends, and parents are essential to getting money for the University.
Having a goal is an essential part to success. As Kean University grows and expands it is obvious in the future it will be a different school than you or I have seen, but one thing will remain-It's dedication to being a powerhouse of education, history, and accomplishment. As Doug Nelson, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, pointed out, the quality of the experience has to prepare the student for competing with college graduates from other schools.
As a college student, when it comes to money, times can be hard. But it is important to remember every gift counts. Donations can be made by anyone, including students, students groups and organizations. Even if you can only donate $5 or $10, it is still increasing funds raised benefiting students. Kean is influencing the future, giant steps at a time. Kean is the largest in the state in the production of teachers, which as Doug Nelson states, "Kean alumni significantly impact a number of people in the state". With that said, go out there and transform lives by spreading the word and making a donation, if you can.
