Alumni & Friends
Bethel Focus
A Magazine of Bethel University
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“Taking the Next Step” Campaign Update
This is the last issue of Focus before the May 31 conclusion of “Taking the Next Step,” the largest-ever comprehensive resource campaign for Bethel University.
The goal is $105 million. Gifts and pledges through February total $94 million. All alumni and friends are urgently needed to step up to help Bethel University serve a student body of more than 6,200 students—and growing.
Have you participated? If Bethel’s distinct mission has played a meaningful role in your life, or the lives of your children, grandchildren, or church, now is the time to express your appreciation.
Please consider why your gift is so crucial:
Facilities – With growing enrollment, capacity in both the college and seminary buildings has been reached and exceeded. New expansions for student services and gathering areas will free existing space for instruction.
Annual Fund – Like a personal checking account, this fund provides for the portion of operational expenses that tuition does not cover. A robust annual fund is essential to every faculty member and every student—every day.
Current Program Support – Academic departments often need additional faculty or equipment; or an opportunity in the marketplace calls for a new program with a Christian worldview.
Endowment – This “savings account” for Bethel earns interest to fund financial aid, new programs, and facilities.
Planned Gifts – These gifts create long-term support for Bethel through wills, trusts, and annuities.
Please Participate by May 31!
Here’s How:
Even more than new buildings, the most significant goal of “Taking the Next Step” is to increase—and sustain—the level of consistent support for a transformed Bethel University.
We are well on our way! Since the campaign’s public launch, more than 17,000 different donors have stepped up to participate, including many new donors who have never previously given. This momentum is encouraging! But there are still specific goals you can help meet:
President’s Club—Donors of $1,500 annually. Bethel seeks a 30 percent increase in giving at this amount or higher.
Estates, wills, and other planned gifts—your intention to include Bethel in your estate plan will support long-term endowment needs.
Annual Fund—Join a record number of alumni and friends supporting Bethel’s Annual Fund in recent years. And explore gift matching programs with your employer.
Bethel’s fiscal year and the campaign conclude on May 31, 2008. Please participate in a new and sustained level of stewardship for Bethel University, and respond using the enclosed business reply envelope, or contact the Office of Development at 651.635.8050. For campaign news, see www.bethel.edu/development/campaign.