A Transformational Year
Ball State University’s unwavering support from graduates, friends, and partners was on full display throughout the 2023-24 fiscal year—a period of unprecedented generosity for an institution built on the philanthropy of the five Ball brothers.
During the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2024, Ball State set a fundraising record, securing more than $79 million in new gifts and commitments, marking a sixth consecutive year that the University has surpassed $30 million in new private, philanthropic gifts. These funds play a critical role in advancing the University’s mission of engaging students in experiences that empower them to have fulfilling careers and meaningful lives enriched by lifelong learning and service.
“Because of the extraordinary generosity of our graduates and benefactors, we have achieved the best year of fundraising in our University’s history,” said Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns. “I am grateful for these philanthropic investments in our people—our students, our faculty, and our staff—which enable us to fulfill our vital mission and to transform lives.”
One of the standout initiatives contributing to Ball State’s fundraising success is the University’s ongoing comprehensive campaign, Our Call to Beneficence, which recently surpassed the $300 million mark in secured gifts and commitments. Funds raised during Our Call to Beneficence support initiatives to ensure student opportunity and success, enrich the academic experience, and expand Ball State’s campus and community impact.
“The passion and dedication from our graduates and our benefactors have been very inspiring. Their contributions are not just financial; they represent a shared vision for the future of Ball State University,” said Randy Pond, a 1977 Ball State graduate and chair of the Our Call to Beneficence executive campaign council. “Continued support will be crucial to reaching our ambitious goals and ensuring the lasting impact of our initiatives.”
In recognition of its outstanding fundraising and engagement initiatives, Ball State once again received top honors from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and its annual Circle of Excellence Awards. Earlier this year, One Ball State Day, the University’s annual 24-hour fundraising event, was the recipient of one gold and three silver Circle of Excellence Awards.
Plans are underway for the next One Ball State Day on April 2, 2025.
“Our community understands that a Ball State degree can change the trajectory of a student’s life,” said Jean Kramer Crosby, ’96, president of the Ball State University Foundation and Alumni Association and vice president for university advancement. “Gifts from our alumni and friends, along with the support of faculty, staff, and students, enhance our ability to provide scholarships, enrich academic and co-curricular programs, and increase our University’s engagement with the community.”
Your Passion, Your Impact
Here are some of the highlights of a record-breaking fundraising year at Ball State in 2023-24:
- Scholarships and Student Support: Generated nearly $7 million in commitments for 35 new scholarships, making higher education more accessible.
- Performing Arts Center (PAC): Over $47 million secured for the new PAC, a facility that will benefit students, faculty, staff, and the community.
- Ryan Family Scholars and Navigator Program: Thanks to Michelle (Asby), ’81, and Jim Ryan, this Teachers College program continues to provide essential resources and guidance to students pursuing careers in education.
- Eric Foss Championship Performance Center: A $4 million gift from Eric Foss, ’80, supports a new training facility for athletic excellence.
- One Ball State Day: The latest event raised over $1.17 million from 8,467 gifts, showing strong community support.
