'BW Rising' campaign far exceeds goal, raises nearly $2.5 million

President Lee Fisher acknowledged the overwhelming donor response as "an investment in our students and a vote of confidence in the next chapter of BW's 180-year story."

Baldwin Wallace University announced today that its annual fund has far exceeded expectations. The fundraising year ended with a special six-week campaign, "BW Rising," an effort which alone brough in close to $2.5 million in gifts, helping the annual fund surpass its goal.

The results are thanks to overwhelming community support and generous matching gift commitments from dedicated alumni and friends. The annual fund is an important component of the nearly $12 million in philanthropic dollars raised for BW in 2024-25.

Vote of confidence

"We are absolutely thrilled by the incredible response from our BW community," said BW President Lee Fisher.

"This extraordinary success demonstrates the deep commitment our alumni, friends and supporters have to ensuring that Baldwin Wallace continues to provide transformative educational experiences," Fisher continued. "It represents both an investment in our students and a vote of confidence in the next chapter of BW's 180-year story."

The campaign's success was amplified by several major gift commitments and challenge opportunities.

"This campaign's remarkable success reflects the strength and vision of the Baldwin Wallace community as the university continues to evolve," added Fisher, who formally took the reins at BW on July 1.

Investing in the future

The six-week campaign nearly doubled BW's Annual Fund total for 2024-25, which exceeded the previous year's annual fund sum.

The funds raised will support multiple critical areas of student success, including:

• Financial aid that enables students of all backgrounds to have affordable access to a quality BW education
• Experiential learning opportunities through research, study abroad and hands-on education outside the classroom
• Technology and facilities investments in innovative and modern learning spaces
• Career readiness programs that connect students with professional opportunities
• Enhanced health and wellness resources that encourage students to thrive academically and personally, and
• Leadership development that empowers students to shape the future of their communities.

By surpassing the original goal, "BW Rising" has positioned the University to expand its impact on student success and regional educational excellence.

BW continues to welcome donor gifts. Visit bw.edu/giving to learn more.