Oregon Public Broadcasting

The University of Oregon has made history with its eight-year long fund-drive. President Dave Frohnmayer Friday announced “Campaign Oregon” has raised more than $853 million. KLCC’s Rachael McDonald reports.

Frohnmayer, who will retire at the end of the school year, calls it the most ambitious fundraiser in the state’s history. It surpassed the original goal of $600 million.

A portion is for student scholarships and fellowships. The money also goes to faculty support and academic programs.

Frohnmayer says the fundraiser started during the recession of 2001 and concluded during scary economic times.

Dave Frohnmayer: “That gives us great confidence that even during the terrifying economic times that we’re in for so many people that we can be a bastion of hope and creativity in the indefinite future.”

More than 90,000 individual donors helped raise the money.

It’s already been put to use in student scholarships, faculty awards and improvements to campus buildings including new science facilities, a new University Theater and renovation of the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art.