Florida Atlantic University (FAU) has successfully completed its first comprehensive fundraising campaign in over two decades, known as “Transcend Tomorrow.” This ambitious initiative raised an impressive $617,376,995.44, with contributions from more than 65,000 alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends.
Campaign Highlights
The funds raised during the “Transcend Tomorrow” campaign will support various programs across all colleges and units at FAU. Key focus areas include:
- Scholarships and student-success initiatives
- Health care training and research
- Environmental protection programs
Leadership Insight
FAU President Adam Hasner credited the campaign’s success to the vision of former President John Kelly and the generosity of donors. He stated, “Thanks to everyone who helped us reach this milestone. We are just getting started.” This campaign has significantly propelled FAU into new realms in research, athletics, and community impact.
Enhanced Academic Environment
FAU’s achievements during the campaign include being one of just 21 institutions in the U.S. to earn both Research 1 (R1) and Opportunity College and University (OCU) designations in the 2025 Carnegie Classifications.
Additionally, donations have facilitated the construction of crucial facilities, such as:
- Schmidt Family Complex for Academic and Athletic Excellence
- Kurt and Marilyn Wallach Holocaust and Jewish Studies Building (currently under construction)
These developments have allowed more talented students to access scholarships and success initiatives, fostering academic excellence.
Long-Term Support and Future Goals
The campaign was launched over a decade ago with a significant $16 million donation from the Schmidt Family Foundation. Richard L. Schmidt, an FAU alumnus, highlighted the importance of premier facilities for maintaining high academic standards. He expressed pride in the tangible benefits the campaign has brought to the university.
FAU experienced record-breaking fundraising efforts as the campaign progressed into a public phase, supported by transformative gifts from long-time benefactors. David Green, the interim vice president for Institutional Advancement, emphasized the collective effort of the community in achieving the campaign’s goals.
A Legacy of Community Impact
With 65,120 contributors—including a historic number of students and alumni—the success of the “Transcend Tomorrow” campaign resonates with FAU’s roots, dating back to its founding in 1964 through public donations. Brian Poulin, chairman of the FAU Foundation Board, acknowledged the collaborative effort that made this campaign’s success possible.
About Florida Atlantic University
FAU serves over 32,000 students across six campuses on Florida’s Southeast coast. It stands out as one of 21 universities to hold dual Carnegie Classification designations for high research spending and opportunity-level education. Recognized among the Top 100 Public Universities by U.S. News & World Report, FAU is also lauded by Washington Monthly as a leading engine of upward mobility.
In Fall 2025, FAU welcomed its most academically competitive incoming class, reinforcing its status as a preferred choice for students nationally.
