The governing board of Central Methodist University has issued a challenge to CMU alumni and friends – and are backing it with a pledge of $100,000 of their own money.
Dubbed the “All In for Central Trustees Challenge” campaign, it will run from noon March 28 to noon April 4. The goal is to receive gifts from 1,854 individual donors for the fiscal year dating back to last July.
If CMU supporters achieve that goal, Central Methodist Board members collectively will contribute an additional $100,000 to the Central Annual Scholarship Fund for student financial aid.
“This challenge presents a unique opportunity for all individuals to magnify the impact of their contributions,” noted Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations Josh Jacobs. “Just by making the decision to support CMU, and individual can help secure an additional $100,000 for student scholarships.”
While Trustee gifts would go specifically to the Central Annual Scholarship Fund, donors can designate their own gifts to the program or department of their choice. CMU’s top current priorities are the Central Annual Scholarship Fund or the Stedman Hall Renovation project, but gifts to any program or department are welcomed.
The gift amount, while important to CMU, is not the focus of this particular challenge. CMU selected 1,854 because that would reflect an increase in giving participation, and because the University was established in 1854.
“The idea is simple: we cannot achieve anything alone,” noted Jackie Jackson, CMU director of annual giving and operations. “It takes all of us to realize the highest potential for the future of CMU. When we are all in, we make the most significant impact.”
