When did the campaign begin?
The University began approaching close friends, including the campus community, July 1, 2008.
When will the campaign end?
The campaign will conclude June 30, 2012.
What are the campaign priorities?
There are three mission-driven priorities of the campaign, which will each significantly enhance Concordia’s learning community. Funds raised with grow the endowment, increase the annual fund and make capital improvements to the Fine Arts performance and visual arts facility.
What is the campaign’s financial goal?
The campaign strives to raise $22 million, which includes support for all three portions of the project: build, grow, and inspire. The Sustaining Fund goal is $10 million in pledges. Campus construction and renovations accounts for $7 million. Endowment is the final $5 million of the total goal.
Why is this Campaign referred to as a ‘comprehensive’ campaign?
Build. Grow. Inspire. is called a ‘comprehensive’ campaign because it includes support for new projects as well as gifts for the annual operation of the University, student aid and ongoing support for specific programs.
Why is Sustaining Fund and Endowment support important to the success of the campaign?
The Sustaining Fund and Endowment demonstrate the financial health and stability of a university. As the economy fluctuates, these funds allow the University to respond to evolving student needs in a timely manner. The Sustaining Fund supports all the essential components of the University’s mission. The Endowment secures the University’s future by providing student scholarships, special program and operational endowments, and academic and non-academic chairs.
If/when I decide to give a gift, who is this information shared with? I’m concerned about the confidentiality of my gift(s).
Information about individual contributions is strictly confidential and will not be shared with anyone outside the campaign office. Campaign staff members with a need-to-know will have access to information about individual gifts for the purpose of recording the donation, generating the appropriate tax receipt and to appropriately acknowledge each donation. Campaign staff members are bound by a professional code of ethics and a ‘donor bill of rights.’
If I gave a gift after July 1, 2008 when the campaign started, does my gift still count even though I gave it such a long time ago?
Yes. It is our hope that the Lord would make it possible for you to prayerfully consider increasing your support, or give a special campaign gift.
How can I remit payments on my multi-year pledge?
The campaign office is glad to work with you to set a payment schedule that best suits your needs. Gifts can be automatically made via credit card or in response to pledge payment reminders sent by mail. Simply contact Meg Busse at 708-209-3482 or email Meg.Busse@CUChicago.edu.
May I cancel my pledge?
Pledges may be cancelled at any time. We fully realize that circumstances change. Concordia staff is also happy to work with you to alter your payment plan to fit your changing circumstances.
Will I continue to receive appeals as I make payments on a multi-year pledge?
Yes, we find that our ongoing appeals are a way to provide information on activities, events, special appeals, Concordia's financial situation and so forth. Plus, at times, donors find it possible to make a gift over and above their pledge payments, such as a memorial or tribute gift, a special occasion, etc. If you prefer not to receive ongoing appeals as you make pledge payments, simply inform the campaign office.
I have additional questions about the campaign. Who can I contact?
If you have additional questions at any time, please contact Cindy Simpson, Senior Vice President, Development and Alumni Relations, at (708) 209-3156 or cindy.simpson@cuchicago.edu.