DePauw University announces the launch of Bold, Gold & You!, a $575 million fundraising campaign

DePauw University announces the launch of Bold, Gold & You!, a $575 million fundraising campaign, the largest in its 188-year history and a defining moment for the institution’s future.

Carrie Melind Coquillette '82 and Ken Coquillette '82 will serve as co-chairs of the Bold, Gold & You! campaign, bringing leadership and passion to this important effort. The initiative sets an ambitious standard for advancing DePauw’s educational excellence, student experience and global impact, with early fundraising success propelled by a record-setting $150 million lead gift received in 2024.

To date, the university has raised $285 million toward its $575 million goal, reflecting remarkable momentum and broad donor support for the university's strategic direction. Funds raised will be invested in strengthening the university’s endowment and providing resources that advance institutional priorities and student outcomes.

The Bold, Gold & You! campaign aligns with the DePauw Bold & Gold 2027 strategic plan and centers on four strategic priorities that will shape DePauw’s future:

• A robust student experience is at the heart of the DePauw campus and campaign. With a goal of $172 million, the campaign aims to enhance key aspects of campus life, including upgraded housing, expanded study abroad opportunities, enriched internship and research programs and a thriving athletic culture.
• A three-school framework is central to DePauw’s academic mission. With the goal of raising $116 million, these resources will be directed toward DePauw’s innovative three-schools initiative, which integrates the liberal arts, business and leadership, and creativity to equip students to lead, create and innovate within and beyond the university's boundaries.
• With a goal of raising $150 million for scholarships, this represents a commitment to ensuring that every talented student can access a DePauw education, regardless of their financial circumstances. The campaign seeks to expand The DePauw Promise, eliminate barriers, invest in financial aid and attract top scholars.
• The campaign will raise $93 million for faculty excellence. Funding will provide critical support for attracting, retaining and empowering faculty and staff. They are the scholars and mentors who lead academic innovation and inspire students for generations.

DePauw University President Dr. Lori S. White recognized the moment. “This campaign is about so much more than meeting monetary goals," she said. "At its heart, it is about changing lives, the ripple effects of DePauw graduates making a difference in communities, industries, institutions and nations across the globe.

Greg Sissel, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, added, “DePauw’s campaign builds on a deep legacy of opportunity and support. Rather than simply meeting ambitious fundraising targets, this campaign aims to transform lives and create pathways for students at DePauw today and well into the future."