SEPT 5 MEDIA RELEASE__Bluffton University announced the launch of the Pillars of Purpose, a one-year strategic campaign focused on building stability, trust, hope and compassion. This campaign, which focuses on Bluffton’s mission to “prepare students of all backgrounds,” looks to strengthen key areas of campus and lay foundations for future generations of Bluffton Beavers. 

Rooted in the historic peace church tradition and committed to excellence, Bluffton continues to live out its mission through discovery, community, respect and service.

“Pillars of Purpose represents a transformative moment in Bluffton’s history,” said Dr. Alex Sider, Bluffton University president. “This campaign is about more than raising funds. It is about strengthening our foundation, building trust across our community, inspiring hope for what’s possible, and showing compassion for current and future students.”

The campaign supports Bluffton University’s 2025-26 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes four key pillars:

Stability – Creating a strong foundation for growth, innovation and student success.

Trust – Fostering transparency, integrity and meaningful relationships with students, faculty, staff, alumni and external partners.

Hope – Inspiring students and alumni to envision a bright future through academic excellence, mentorship and alumni engagement.

Compassion – Supporting every member of the Bluffton community with care and resilience while ensuring long-term student retention and growth.

Campaign priorities include $500,000 for classroom technology upgrades, $250,000 for health science program revitalization, $275,000 for a new scoreboard at Salzman Stadium, and $180,000 for renovations to Shoker Science Center. Together, these projects will provide cutting-edge academic resources, enhance student experiences, and strengthen Bluffton’s role as a vibrant community of learning and service.

Beyond financial goals, the campaign builds on initiatives already underway. Bluffton recently hired an on-ground CFO and has expanded staffing in the business office and looks to continue that work in the advancement offices. Plans are also in motion to strengthen partnerships with local communities, faith-based organizations and regional businesses, ensuring students have access to leadership, service and career opportunities.

Alumni engagement is another central theme of Pillars of Purpose. The campaign calls on Bluffton’s more than 17,000 alumni to deepen their connections with the university through mentorship, events and philanthropy.

“Bluffton has always been a place where lives are transformed,” said Claire Kleman, interim vice president of advancement and enrollment management. “Now is the time for our alumni, friends and supporters to invest in the next generation, ensuring Bluffton’s values and mission remain strong for another 125 years.”

The campaign runs through June 30, 2026, with opportunities for alumni and friends of the university to contribute directly to the four campaign priorities or make unrestricted gifts in support of Bluffton’s mission.

To learn more about Pillars of Purpose and to make a gift, visit www.bluffton.edu/campaign/