Metropolitan State University of Denver’s inaugural comprehensive fundraising campaign, Roadrunners Rise, has a goal of raising $100 million to solidify the University as a leader in social mobility. Comprehensive fundraising campaigns are multiyear initiatives that start with a silent fundraising phase, which for Roadrunners Rise began in fall 2020.
“For the first few years, our focus was on deepening relationships with leadership donors to secure significant funding,” said Christine Márquez-Hudson, vice president of University Advancement. “This strategy builds momentum for our initiatives and develops curiosity about MSU Denver in our community.”
The strategy has proved successful. Since the campaign’s onset, nearly $76 million has been raised with the help of transformational gifts from such donors as Gina and Frank Day. The Days made the largest philanthropic gift in University history, pledging $10 million to name the MSU Denver Health Institute.
With over 75% of the stated fundraising goal met, Feb. 19 marks the start of the campaign’s public phase: 17 months dedicated to creating inclusive and accessible opportunities, allowing everyone to participate in our University’s culture of philanthropy.
The Roadrunners Rise launch event is slated for Feb. 19 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Auraria Event Center. The launch will feature remarks from University and MSU Denver Foundation leadership; activation stations where guests will have hands-on experiences guided by students, faculty members and staff members; student performances; and a campaign hype video.
“The launch will showcase excellence across MSU Denver’s people and programs, and everyone, including family and friends, is invited to join us,” said Jamie Hurst, J.D., assistant vice president for Strategic Engagement and the campaign director. “Bottom line: It will be a must-attend event.”
MSU Denver’s University Advancement team announces that the public phase of the Roadrunners Rise campaign launches Feb. 19, and you are invited!
