Baker University announces $20 million ‘Forever Orange’ campaign

President Lynne Murray and the Baker University Board of Trustees are proud to announce the public launch of Forever Orange: The Campaign for Baker University to raise $20 million for scholarships, faculty excellence, student experiences, and capital projects.

The Forever Orange campaign was quietly launched in May 2016, and early commitments from generous alumni and friends total more than $12 million in gifts and pledges as of April 2, 2018.

“Baker’s roots run deep, and this campaign is about acknowledging our history and influence in the region while ensuring that every student has access to an exceptional education so that they are prepared to make significant contributions to society,” President Murray said.

Chairman of the Board of Trustees Gordon Lansford, III, ’93, stated that this ambitious effort is about building the future for Baker. “The collective support of the Baker community will enrich innumerable lives through our efforts,” he said.

The campaign is cochaired by Board of Trustees member Gary Sollars, ’71, and his wife, Connie Mangun Sollars, ’72, and Murray, ’69, and Diane Wilson Blackwelder, ’70.

“For the past 160 years, there have been graduates from Baker. I feel a connection to them and I have a connection to those students who are attending Baker today. I believe that this campaign is going to ensure that connection—that bond—will carry on for the next 160 years,” Gary Sollars said.

The campaign kickoff event, Forever Orange: An Evening of Dining, Dancing, and Celebration, will be held October 13 at the Gallery Event Space in Kansas City, Missouri. This is the first of several events that will provide opportunities for Baker alumni and friends to gather to honor Baker’s legacy while building for its future.

For more information about the campaign visit bakerU.edu/ForeverOrange.