Campus News

At a luncheon for supporters and special guests, President Eric W. Fulcomer announced that the University has exceeded its original goal of $17,300,000 with $18,237,000 raised to date. The Rock Solid & Ready Capital Campaign will officially conclude at the end of the University’s fiscal year on June 30, 2019. Any additional funds raised will contribute to the Rock Solid & Ready final total.

President Fulcomer states, “As Rockford University’s 18th president, it has been my privilege to continue working toward the successful completion of the elements set forth in the Rock Solid & Ready Campaign. I was fortunate in my previous role as Vice President of Enrollment Management to have served alongside President Emeritus Robert L. Head, as the vision for this important work began to take shape, ultimately refining itself into a campaign that has allowed for a strengthening of the Rockford University experience for students, faculty, alumni and friends.”

Campaign Chair Jim Keeling adds, “The generosity of the Rockford University community has been incredible. Led by our dedicated Trustees, more than 2,500 donors have invested in this extraordinary institution during our campaign. Relative to the established campaign priorities, the $18,000,000+ has made a tremendous impact, helping to Shape Modern Facilities ($3.7 million); Enhance the Student Experience ($5.9 million) and Provide for Current Needs ($8.6 million).”

As a result of the Rock Solid & Ready Campaign, the University has been able to make substantial improvements in its academic areas, student experience and learning spaces. Campaign highlights include modernizations completed to the Starr Science Building; the purchase of new scientific equipment; naming of the Puri School of Business, including the installation of the Bloomberg Business Lab trading floor; and the creation of the Student Opportunity Fund which allows for supportive funding for students to further engage in research experiences with faculty and in unique learning opportunities. Finally, the strengthening of the University’s annual fund has allowed for extensive capital improvements to take place across all areas of campus.

This fall, the University will be constructing a $3,000,000 expansion to the Seaver Physical Education Center. This new addition will house an enhanced weight and fitness space and will add more classroom space for the rapidly growing physical education and exercise science programs. Designed by local architecture firm Larson & Darby Group, this vital expansion will be an important venue for student learning and enrollment growth.  

President Fulcomer concludes, “We have much to celebrate as we close out this campaign. I am grateful to all who have helped us achieve our goal. Our wonderful students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends, and visionary trustees, have solidified an exceptional and robust educational experience that prepares Rockford University students for productive lives and careers.”