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March 2005 Indiana University East and Purdue University College of Technology Partner to Move the Region ForwardRichmond, Ind. - Presidents of Indiana's two largest universities gathered in Richmond today to unveil a partnership that will raise $2 million to help improve the lives of citizens in the region. Indiana University President Adam W. Herbert and Purdue University President Martin C. Jischke announced the "Campaign for Community," a campaign for Indiana University East and The Purdue University College of Technology aimed at raising dollars for scholarships, nursing and science laboratories, the new IU East entrepreneurship center and a new art gallery. President Herbert said by the two universities working together, along with the community, they are on a mission for shaping the region’s future with knowledge as the new economic currency. "The impact of this collaboration will result in lasting economic opportunities right there at home. Your commitment to this endeavor today will leave a legacy without end," Herbert said. Martin C. Jischke, president of Purdue University, agreed that the partnership between the community and the two great universities is unique. "We recognize that the economic health and quality of life are linked to educational attainment," Jischke said. "Purdue University is excited to join forces with Indiana University and the community, to ensure that the region’s students will still have the resources and academic preparation they will need tomorrow." The IU East campus has not organized a capital campaign since the early ‘90s and the Purdue University College of Technology at Richmond has never had an organized fund-raising campaign. At the initial planning that started in November 2002, it was made clear by top supporters that the two universities should have a joint campaign. Stronger programs in science and business are being developed by both and changes and program growth require funding. Working together, both institutions can be a catalyst for the community. Indiana and Purdue identified four campaign priorities: • A new entrepreneurship center is currently being developed. The center will be instrumental in allowing students to begin a business of their own while providing educational programming and internships. • Laboratory equipment for the nursing and life science laboratories. • Scholarships to sponsor students that want to attend and graduate with degrees from Indiana and Purdue Universities but need financial support in order to obtain their degree. • And an art gallery and the preservation of the IU East art collection. The gallery will be constructed in Whitewater Hall. IU East Chancellor David J. Fulton is urging the community to participate for the future of east central Indiana. "This is a critical time for the destiny of our community. Times have changed," Fulton said. "We must invest in knowledge that will drive a vibrant economic future. It is important to offer educational opportunities that inspire new business growth." The campaign has been in a silent phase since June 2004 and to date $1 million has been pledged. The campaign will formally conclude on October 7, 2005 with a milestone announcement and will then ease into an on-going major gifts campaign. "Our message to the community is that these two institutions are critical resources to the economic health and vitality of the region. Both schools exist in this location today because leaders in the community made it happen," said Fulton. "In a time where the state of Indiana struggles to keep college graduates in the state, over sixty-five percent of our graduates remain in the communities of this area." "We have a mutual obligation to the region to generate valuable resources as investments for the economic future, and education is at the top of the list," Fulton said. Media Contacts: Cynthia Vaughn, Director, (765) 973-8444, cvaughn@indiana.edu Hali Cartee, Media Relations Manager, (765) 973-8202, hcartee@indiana.edu Published: March 25, 2005 Related Sites: Indiana University East home page Purdue University Richmond College of Technology page
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