Jacksonville University launches ‘Future. Made.’

Higher Education

Jacksonville University announced the public launch of a new fundraising initiative, “Future. Made.” on Oct. 21 at a presentation at the university.

“’Future. Made.’ represents our core identity and mission as a university: building a better future. It’s who we are and what we do,” JU President Tim Cost said in a news release.

“For decades, Jacksonville University has worked hard to be a force for positive change and meaningful progress in northeast Florida. We are now positioned to extend that impact on a much larger scale, for the good of all,” Cost said.

With a $175 million goal, JU said it intends to create a lasting impact on future generations of students who will shape a stronger future for the region and the world.

The release said the goals of the campaign exceed the $121 million raised during JU’s previous Aspire campaign. With $103 million raised to-date during the “quiet phase” of the campaign, the university has reached nearly 60% of its $175 million goal.

More than 500 people have so far invested more than $10,000 each and 35 donors have invested more than $1 million.

With the funds raised, JU will address climate change, cybersecurity, access to quality health care services, the value of artistic expression in an AI world, the shortage of nurses and pilots, antibiotic-resistant pathogens, the mental health crisis and respectful, civil discourse that promotes a stronger democracy, the release says.

Jacksonville University President Tim Cost.

The campaign is supported by five pillars of strategic funding priorities:

• Pioneering with Purpose, which focuses on the strategic expansion of programs and specialties that match the market and reflect the needs of the community;

• Unwavering Exploration, a commitment to solve global issues and build stronger communities through research, applied learning and the arts;

• Reimagining Experiences, with a goal of transforming the collegiate experience with enhanced facilities, immersive technology, community engagement and resources designed to help students thrive;

• Ready to Rise, dedicated to regional expansion, the continued ascent of JU athletics and informing the national conversation with faculty expertise; and

• Forever for the Future, which supports institutional longevity, stability and agility through unrestricted funds.

“Our University has a sense of urgency around the possibilities we see on the horizon. We are at a critical time when meaningful, positive change is within reach for those who are willing to think differently, are open to partnering, and not afraid of the hard work it will take,” Cost said.

The “Future. Made.” campaign is supported by a committee of alumni, donors and partners:

• Preston and Joan Haskell, honorary campaign chairs

• Dee Brown ’90, executive cabinet, campaign tri-chair

• John Miller, executive cabinet, campaign tri-chair

• Audrey Moran ‘10, executive cabinet, campaign tri-chair

• Linda Berry Stein ‘69, executive cabinet

• J.F. Bryan, executive cabinet

• Stephanie Cost, executive cabinet

• Jay Demetree, executive cabinet

• Patty Donahoo, executive cabinet

• Matt Kane ‘01, executive cabinet

• Irene Lazzara, executive cabinet