U.S. News: Why did your institution decide to undertake its most ambitious fundraising effort ever in this difficult environment for higher ed?
Chris Smith: This campaign comes during a time of unprecedented momentum for the University of Missouri. That opened the door to approach this campaign from a position of strength, with a call to action to help us do even more.
University of Missouri
- We’ve experienced sustained growth in enrollment, community impact and research that has generated palpable enthusiasm among our alumni and donors. Power the Roar channels that energy into transformational philanthropy.
- Mizzou is a national leader in nuclear medicine and the only domestic source of multiple critical radioisotopes used to treat cancer.
- We’re also launching a new Energy Innovation Center to meet rising energy demands and spark economic growth.
- Anchoring it all is our commitment to our land-grant mission – strengthening communities, expanding access and creating opportunity across Missouri and beyond.
U.S. News: What special approaches and messaging did you decide to use, and what have been the quantitative and qualitative results?
Smith: Here in the Midwest, we’re often modest. This campaign is intentionally bold. Power the Roar tells a story of the collective impact of our alumni, donors, faculty and students across five priorities. We want people to understand the incredible things Mizzou is doing and how philanthropy fuels tangible outcomes for people and communities.
- Everyone can be part of this campaign, whether through a transformational gift or a first annual contribution. More than 61,000 donors have contributed, demonstrating strong engagement.
- Last year, donors achieved the highest fundraising year in the university’s history, and in March, we celebrated our annual giving day with the highest participation in four years.
Qualitatively, we’re seeing deeper donor connection to mission-driven priorities.
Get Higher Ground in your inbox each week!
The must-read newsletter for leaders shaping higher education’s future.
By clicking “Sign Up”, you will receive the latest updates, including emails, from U.S. News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors, and you agree to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy.
- Across higher education, people want universities to deliver solutions that improve their lives.
- We want to deliver those solutions by aligning philanthropy with areas of institutional excellence and strengthening the shared legacy that unites the Mizzou community.
U.S. News: What advice would you give to other institutions weighing what type of fundraising drive to pursue at this challenging moment?
- Start with a clear purpose, not just a dollar goal. Alumni and donors respond to vision.
- Ground your campaign in authentic strengths and areas where your institution can improve lives, solve problems and create opportunity.
- Timing shouldn’t be dictated solely by external conditions: If you have momentum and a compelling case for support, lean into it. Even in uncertain environments, people invest in institutions they believe are making a difference.
- Confidence, transparency and a clear connection between giving and impact are what ultimately drive success.
- Remember the power of participation. Large gifts are essential for achieving ambitious goals, but broad engagement builds resilience and long-term support.
- Campaigns that give everyone a way to participate – alumni, friends, corporate partners, foundations – create stronger outcomes and build a culture of philanthropy.
