Successful $82.7 million CSB capital campaign celebration is Sept. 20

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September 8, 2008

When the College of Saint Benedict (CSB) embarked on the public phase of its $80 million capital campaign three years ago, organizers fittingly picked a theme:  “Our Place in the World: A Campaign to Inspire and Transform.”

To say that a transformation has taken place would be an understatement.

President MaryAnn Baenninger is pleased to announce that the campaign has raised $82.7 million and has concluded one year before the June 30, 2009 target date. This is nearly three times the amount of money that was raised in the last capital campaign, which was concluded in 1996 and raised $30.5 million.

A celebration to honor the successful completion of the campaign is from 5 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20 at the Gorecki Dining and Conference Center on the CSB campus. Remarks will be at 6:45 p.m. Refreshments and a light dinner will be served. Entertainment will follow the remarks. The public is welcome to attend.

“What this campaign has accomplished is nothing short of remarkable,” Baenninger said. “If you came to CSB today, you would be amazed at how much has changed from five years ago. There has been a significant transformation in the appearance of the campus and the learning that is taking place both on and off campus. We feel the educational experience of our students has truly been enhanced.”

The following campaign priorities were funded:

  • $47.5 million for annual giving and scholarship endowment;
  • $20.4 million for enhanced academic excellence;
  • $14.8 million for capital improvements.

More than 17,600 alumnae, parents, friends, corporations and foundations contributed to the campaign, including 23 gifts of $1 million or more. Here are some additional highlights of those gifts:

  • The two largest contributors were Thomas J. Petters, who gave a total of $8.3 million, and Ben and Dorothy Gorecki, who gave a total of $8.25 million;
  • Nearly 60 percent of alumnae donated;
  • The first center of excellence along with academic chairs and professorships were established;
  • Two new buildings and two major renovations were also completed.

“We are so pleased with the outpouring of support from our alumnae and friends. Whether from lifelong philanthropists or first-time donors, every gift made a difference and propelled the College of Saint Benedict past our historic goal,” said Stuart Lang, vice president of Institutional Advancement at CSB.