Campaign Montana concludes with state higher education giving record, momentum for UM to be flagship institution for the future

Over the seven years from 2013 to 2020, Campaign Montana invited the University of Montana family to think big and be bold. When the campaign concluded in August, it became abundantly clear that the aspirational call to action motivated Grizzlies and UM supporters far and wide.

Campaign Montana inspired $450.9 million in giving to the UM Foundation from more than 34,000 donors, making it the most ambitious and successful higher education fundraising campaign in state history.

Generous donors exceeded every goal Campaign Montana leaders set along the way. This included surpassing the initial $320 million goal set during the quiet phase that began in July 2013, the $400 million goal announced when the campaign launched publicly and the aspirational goal of 110% ($440 million) established during the campaign’s final year.

“The record-setting gifts received by the UM Foundation during Campaign Montana have already impacted UM and will have a transformational effect on thousands of students and the entire UM community for generations,” UM President Seth Bodnar said. “When you consider the passion and loyalty of the UM giving community, Campaign Montana is proof positive that we can realize big ambitions and bold visions together.”

Private support from individuals, families, businesses and foundations augments state support, student tuition and fees, research grants and other operating revenue. It is vital to achieving the UM mission.

In the case of Campaign Montana, donor gifts have touched every corner of campus — every student, school and college. They are translating into scholarships and student support, investments in learning environments and academic programs, and resources that enhance access to higher education and provide students with critical applied learning and career preparation experiences.

From its inception, the campaign focused on inspiring support for students. When the campaign launched publicly just after President Bodnar joined UM in 2018, he asked the UM family to unite in shaping a University that places student success at the center of all it does, and drives excellence and innovation in teaching, research and learning.

In addition to University-wide leadership fundraising priorities and goals, each UM college and school, as well as Grizzly Athletics, the Flathead Lake Biological Station, the Montana Museum of Art and Culture and other programs, established fundraising objectives for the campaign.

Each donor and every gift — no matter the size — made a difference in Campaign Montana’s success. Such generous contributions are not only changing lives, they are providing critical momentum as UM continues its trajectory to be a flagship institution for the future.

Learn more about the transformational impact of your campaign giving at CampaignMontana.org. Watch the UM Foundation's virtual campaign celebration video on-demand at SupportUM.org/CampaignCelebration.