Indiana State University is proudly celebrating the exceptional success of its Be So BOLD campaign, the most ambitious fundraising initiative in the history of the institution. The campaign originally launched with the goal of raising $100 million by June 30, 2025, but soared beyond expectations to raise a record-breaking amount of $133 million in support of student scholarships, experiential learning, faculty excellence, and Sycamore Athletics.
Indiana State University is proudly celebrating the exceptional success of its Be So BOLD campaign, the most ambitious fundraising initiative in the history of the institution. The campaign originally launched with the goal of raising $100 million by June 30, 2025, but soared beyond expectations to raise a record-breaking amount of $133 million in support of student scholarships, experiential learning, faculty excellence, and Sycamore Athletics.
“The Be So BOLD campaign reflects the incredible momentum driving Indiana State University forward. We’re seeing new energy across campus—through the success of our students, the strength of our partnerships, and a growing commitment to community engagement. This campaign harnessed that spirit and amplified it,” said Dr. Mike Godard, President of Indiana State University. “I’m deeply grateful to the alumni, donors, and friends who believe in the mission of Indiana State. Their support is helping us expand opportunities, elevate impact, and boldly shape the future of Indiana State University.”
Following a strong quiet phase that secured 62% of the campaign’s goal, Be So BOLD was launched publicly in September 2022 and quickly gained traction. By the end of the first year, the campaign had raised an additional $30 million, followed by another $20 million raised in its second year.
“Reaching this milestone was the result of several years of persistence and commitment from so many Sycamores and supporters,” said Andrea Angel, Vice President of University Advancement and CEO of the Indiana State University Foundation. “The completion of this campaign marks a pivotal step in providing our students, faculty, and staff the resources they need to be successful.”
One of the notable milestones of the campaign was Indiana State receiving its largest individual donation of $8 million from Steve ’70 and Gloria Bailey to name the Bailey College of Engineering & Technology (BCET). The gift is being used for three funds: the creation of the BCET Scholars program for incoming freshmen, the Bailey Faculty Fellowship Fund, and the Dean’s Fund for the BCET.
In addition to this outstanding example of philanthropy, there were many gifts towards the four pillars of the campaign: student scholarships, experiential learning, faculty excellence, and Sycamore Athletics. Some of the leading contributions of these pillars were:
Be So BOLD was pushed to success through the support of donors, and the dedication of the campaign cabinet members and the Indiana State University Foundation Board. These dedicated Sycamores helped drive Be So BOLD to groundbreaking levels of achievement.
Paul Chaney, co-chair of Be So BOLD and ’88 alumnus emphasized the vital support behind the campaign:
“This campaign has been about dreaming big and changing lives. From the beginning, we have believed in the Indiana State community. Every dollar raised has contributed to shaping a brighter and bolder future at the University.”
Susan Chaney, also a campaign co-chair and ’92 alumnus highlighted the enduring impact of Be So BOLD’s success:
“Words cannot describe how significant the contributions to this campaign are for the future of the institution and its students. Each gift has created a lasting legacy that lights the path forward for Sycamores of today and tomorrow.”
Buffy Boulet, campaign co-chair and dedicated supporter, reflected on the campaign’s wide-reaching impact:
“Indiana State University is a transformational place, and I am in awe of the remarkable support this campaign has bolstered. The funds raised stand as a powerful witness to the University’s lasting impact and the profound ways it has shaped the lives of its students.”
Larry Boulet, ’74 alumnus and campaign co-chair, shared his appreciation and gratitude:
“The generosity of Sycamores has been truly inspiring. This campaign has surpassed our imaginations, and it has been a privilege to contribute towards this great University to help students achieve their dreams.”
Through the campaign, students and faculty at Indiana State continue to gain the support they need to find opportunities, excel, and innovate.
“Together, we have turned bold ideas into a lasting and persistent reality for our students. We are truly grateful for the support of our donors, campus, and community in making the Be So BOLD campaign an extraordinary success,” said Angel.