Briar Cliff reaches $10 million campaign goal

Briar Cliff University is proud to announce it has reached its initial Celebration Goal of $10,000,000 in the Foundations for the Future Comprehensive Campaign.
 
Now stretching its goal to $12,000,000, the campaign focuses on enhancing affordability, improving the on-campus student experience, and securing Briar Cliff’s position as the most affordable private university in the tri-state region.
 
“At the heart of our campaign is a steadfast dedication to allow students an opportunity to pursue a quality education that will impact the rest of their lives,” said Dr. Matthew Draud, President of Briar Cliff University. “We believe that a high-quality, values-based education should be accessible to all who seek it. Our Franciscan heritage calls us to serve with compassion, foster a caring community, and embrace all people as brothers and sisters. By enhancing our scholarship offerings and financial aid programs, we aim to open doors of opportunity for deserving students, regardless of their economic background.”
 
As the University approaches its centennial, the campaign reflects Briar Cliff’s continued commitment to providing students with an exceptional academic and personal experience. The initiative is addressing critical needs while laying the groundwork for future projects that will elevate the university for the next 100 years.
 A key pillar of the campaign is student affordability. By significantly expanding scholarship opportunities and endowments, Briar Cliff aims to ensure that a high-quality education remains within reach for all students, regardless of financial background.
 
Alongside affordability, the campaign emphasizes infrastructure upgrades to improve the overall student experience. Briar Cliff’s plan includes repairing and modernizing many of its campus facilities, some of which have remained unchanged since their original construction. These upgrades will not only ensure safety and accessibility but also create a more welcoming and engaging campus environment.
 
The funding for the campaign so far includes 100% participation from university leadership. Briar Cliff is still seeking major gifts after broad public appeals began in January 2025. The university is grateful for the generosity of alumni, families and community partners that has allowed for this milestone, and for the Foundations for the Future campaign to continue to be a resounding success.
 
Steve Stouffer, president of Briar Cliff’s Board of Trustees, expressed his commitment to the campaign, stating, “It is an honor to serve as the Chair of Briar Cliff’s Board of Trustees. My wife, Linda, and I place high value in the impact that Briar Cliff has had on Siouxland for nearly a hundred years. We remain steadfast in our commitment to see The Cliff thrive and to continue educating young people who are ready and able to make an impact in our community and beyond.”
 
For more information on the Foundations for the Future Comprehensive Campaign, please contact Cori Koopman, Vice President of University Advancement at 712-279-1630. Additional information on how to contribute can be found at briarcliff.edu/donate.

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