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William Carey University launched its “Great Things Campaign” Tuesday during an annual Scholarship Gala at Lake Terrace Convention Center. Great Things is a far-reaching initiative to raise $26.5 million over the next three years to enhance the Carey experience for current and future students.
“Looking out at the faces of our guests at this year’s scholarship gala, I see so many friends – old friends, new friends, alumni, community supporters, Carey faculty and staff members. I see students who are here to lift up God with music. I am grateful for your unwavering support,” WCU President Dr. Ben Burnett said.
“Every aspect of the Great Things Campaign centers on our students. By investing in their future, we ensure that they are better prepared to receive God’s calling in their lives. We ensure that William Carey University remains a beacon of hope and opportunity. We ensure that we follow in footsteps of our namesake, Dr. William Carey.”
The “Great Things Campaign” has four priorities:
- Academic Affordability – Raising $10 million to invest in scholarships, maintain WCU’s status as the “#1 Best Value” university in Mississippi, and ensure that quality education remains accessible.
- University Life Enhancement – Seeking $7 million to cover renovation of the Hattiesburg cafeteria and build new residence halls on the Tradition campus to enrich the campus experience for students.
- Program Excellence Investment – Committing $8 million to improve campus facilities, including renovating Thomas Fine Arts auditorium and building a new fieldhouse for our nationally ranked tennis teams.
- Carey Fund – Securing $1.5 million for unrestricted gifts that will support student needs and new initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to all aspects of a student’s development.
Odean Busby is chairman of the WCU Board of Trustees.
“The ‘Great Things’ campaign is a wonderful opportunity for you to invest in the tremendous success of William Carey, an outstanding Christian university. By God’s grace, we have already secured $15.2 million toward our $26.5 million goal – more than half of our target in just the first year,” Busby said.
WCU invites the community, including more than 40,000 alumni and supporters, to join in this transformative journey.
“Two hundred years ago, Dr. William Carey inspired us all to, ‘Expect great things from God and attempt great things for God.’ Together, we can empower the next generation of leaders — doctors, teachers, musicians, and community servants — who will positively influence our state and nation,” Burnett said.
For information about the Great Things Campaign, visit www.wcugreatthings.org or call (601) 318-6192.
Cutlines:
Willie Robertson of “Duck Dynasty” was the guest speaker at WCU’s Scholarship Gala. He started his company, Duck Commander, in his living room. But over time, he built it into a national brand known for its duck calls, apparel and hunting gear. Robertson spoke to gala guests about his dedication to faith, family and ducks – in that order. He was introduced by Ben Smith of WCU, left, an assistant athletic director and award-winning outdoors columnist.
The biggest news of the evening came when WCU President Dr. Ben Burnett unveiled the “Great Things” campaign, a far-reaching initiative to raise $26.5 million over the next three years to enhance the Carey experience for students.
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