A 5-year commitment to help build and maintain a stronger and sustainable foundation for Midland University has come to fruition as the university recently completed its $50 million With Purpose Campaign. Through the contributions of thousands of donors, including more than 650 first-time donors, the With Purpose Campaign has provided an opportunity for continued investments in the university and in addressing the priorities of its students, alumni, staff, and community.

It completes a journey that Midland embarked on five years ago as the university set a course to provide opportunities for growth and innovation and plan a vision for Midland’s future. “When I arrived at Midland University, the idea of completing a campaign of this size and caliber seemed like an audacious goal,” Jessica Janssen Wolford, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, said. “The With Purpose Campaign has become a rallying cry for Midland’s hopes and goals for the future. We are humbled by the thousands of people who have contributed millions of dollars to advance Midland University, and ensure a bright future for our students.”

That vision included increased access to education through scholarships, diversified undergraduate and graduate learning experiences, upgraded residential campus buildings, expanded athletic opportunities as well as making strides in student life, equity, and inclusion. “Midland University has a rich history, and as we venture into the future, Midland is poised to do extraordinary things,” Randy Eikmeier, Chairman and CEO of Inspro Insurance and Midland University Board Chair, said. “The commitment to Midland by its leadership team, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the community is as strong as it has ever been. The culmination of the success of this comprehensive campaign is proof of this commitment. I look forward to enjoying Midland’s growth and future success.”

Since the campaign’s inception in 2016, Midland has seen numerous renovations, additions, and updates to facilities across campus. Among those additions was the completion of Miller Hall in 2020. The $10 million project provided a new co-ed residence hall with modern and comfortable living spaces for students. Campaign efforts also helped provide funding for the Midland 1:1 Initiative in 2019 that gave every student on the Fremont campus a free iPad and Apple Pencil. It has also assisted in funding for the Center for Graduate and Professionals Studies location in Omaha, COVID-19 Fund for students, and funding for student scholarships.

Other campus updates include:

• New high-tech scoreboards
• Enhanced internet and wifi service at Fremont campus and Omaha location
• Powerlifting facility renovation
• Luther Library improvements
• Dining Hall renovation
• Esports arena constructed
• Dance team practice space updated
• Eikmeier Commons renovation
• High fidelity nursing simulation lab completion in partnership with Methodist Fremont Health

Gary Perkins, former President and CEO of Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, served as an honorary chair for the campaign along with his wife, Carol. As a former Midland University board member, he valued what the campaign stood for and the impact it would have on Midland’s future goals. “Midland University has always held a special place in our hearts and we were proud to support our alma mater,” Perkins said. “We have always been dedicated to ensuring the mission of the university and we are delighted in the successful completion of this historic campaign, and look forward to the continued growth of Midland.”

Midland University President Jody Horner understands the magnitude of completing a historic campaign and recognizes the impact it will have on the future of Midland. “Raising $50 million for scholarship support, capital improvements, academic program investments, and operational sustainability is an important milestone for Midland University and one that we will celebrate for years to come,” Horner said. “We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our campaign chairs, leadership committee, and the Board of Directors for their support and commitment.”

Read more about the campaign in the Fremont Tribune's story.