U Matter engages young alumni by encouraging them to relive their college experiences and recognize the effect those experiences have had on their lives.

“We are excited by what this initiative can do for the university, its students and its relationship with alumni,” said Patricia Bailey, AU trustee and chair of the alumni campaign division.

Vice President for Advancement, Bob Coffman said, “When a student becomes part of the AU family, a relationship forms that lasts a lifetime. When that student becomes an alum, they simply move to a new branch of the family—a branch whose opinions, needs and wants are vitally important to us and which continues to shape the character of Anderson University. That is what our U Matter campaign is all about.”

Bailey said, “To those inside the Anderson University family, giving is a way to connect with Anderson University, its students and the structure that supports the mission: structures like the new University Center which is in final development, and structures like endowments which help students and faculty.”

The emphasis is on participation, not amount. The U Matter campaign initiates with young alumni and invites them to become a part of the “Dreams. Discovery. Direction.” campaign, while also being understanding of their current stage of life. For those alumni trying to start a career or a family, big capital campaigns often seem out of reach. U Matter brings the campaign to a manageable scale, offering a realistic option to young alumni.

Bailey explained, “To those outside of Anderson University and our alumni family, our commitment to each other and to Anderson University is evaluated by the percentage who give, regardless of the number of actual dollars given.”

“Giving is also a way to say ‘thank you’ to those who have given to support us when we were students,” said Bailey. “Because yesterday’s student, like today’s student, did not pay the entire cost of our education as gifted funds subsidized our tuition and related costs,” said Bailey.

The campaign, set to conclude on May 31, 2010, is the university’s largest fundraising effort and has raised $86 million to date toward the goal. Major components of the campaign include $51 million for capital projects, $34 million for endowment and $25 for operational support. For more information about the “Dreams. Discovery. Direction.” campaign visit the web site.

—David Hynds is the Web Content Specialist for Anderson University.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Anderson University has announced the installation of all-weather synthetic field turf and outdoor game lights at Macholtz Stadium located in the northwest corner of the university campus. The artificial field turf and lighting system at Macholtz Stadium will be ready for the fall 2008 athletic season.

“We are grateful to our football parents who have championed these improvements and provided some of the research needed to move the program ahead,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “Our multi-sport program can benefit in many ways from a synthetic surface and lights. We have received helpful advice regarding this project from several alumni as well as our friends in the Indianapolis Colts organization who understand the usefulness of these facilities. This is but one of several improvements we hope to make to bring our outdoor facilities to a standard of excellence in the next several years.”

The Athletic Complex, consisting of football and baseball fields, all-weather running track and practice fields, was constructed in 1977. In 1985, the football field was named Macholtz Stadium to honor the late Dr. James Macholtz, beloved coach of AU Track and Field as well as the Anderson University football program. Macholtz Stadium holds 4,300 fans and is surrounded by a competition, eight-lane running track.

“While the renovations at Macholtz Stadium directly benefit our football and track and field programs, the entire campus community benefits from these improvements,” said Marci Taylor, interim director of Athletics. “To compete for the top notch student-athlete in the Great Lakes region it is imperative to have modern, state of the art facilities. The campus community and the Anderson area benefit in that this venue has the potential for multiple uses throughout the calendar year.”

Anderson University will be the third school within the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) to provide artificial turf. Currently, there are nine colleges and universities within the HCAC (8 schools providing football programs). Approximately 17 high schools in the Indianapolis area have artificial turf or in process of installing artificial turf in their stadiums.

“The improvements to the stadium give Anderson University a great opportunity to compete in the HCAC,” said Jeff Judge, head football coach at Anderson University. “The enhancements to the stadium allow us to recruit outstanding students from the region and the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Along with the Kardatzke Wellness Center, these improvements put AU in the top category of Division III football.”

The overall cost for the improvements to Macholtz Stadium is approximately $800,000 and will be entirely funded through new gift resources. Advantages of synthetic turf versus grass include availability, usability, and maintenance cost. Research indicates that an artificial turf field will pay for itself in savings within the product’s expected life of 10-12 years. Outdoor all-weather lights will allow the university to expand operational hours and usage of Macholtz Stadium for many of the 16 intercollegiate athletics teams at AU as well as the institution’s expanding academic and intramural program. The current athletic filed at Macholtz stadium was used a maximum of 68 hours during the 2007-08 academic year.

“We are grateful to friends of the university for their commitment to a project that will truly benefit the entire campus,” said Robert L. Coffman, vice president for Advancement at Anderson University. “It also enhances our ability to attract and host events that will benefit our community.”

Anderson University has a history of welcoming and hosting special athletic and music camps. The institution anticipates that these activities can be increased without compromising institutional needs with the availability of an all-weather synthetic field (e.g. bands camps, soccer camps, football camps, etc.). The enhancements offer expanded economic development opportunities for many different athletic events and community activities. In addition, ongoing support can be provided to special community activities such as Special Olympics of Madison County.

The installation of artificial turf and outdoor lights at Macholtz Stadium is the first phase of a larger strategy and vision for the northeast quadrant of the university campus. The field enhancements are a part of the $110 million “Dreams. Discovery. Direction.” Campaign launched on October 6, 2006. The campaign, set to conclude on May 31, 2010, is the university’s largest fundraising effort and has raised $84 million to date toward the goal. Major components of the campaign include $51 million for capital projects, $34 million for endowment and $25 for operational support. For more information about the “Dreams. Discovery. Direction.” campaign visit the web site.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“Nothing is more inspiring than to see this kind of giving that expresses so much about those who are at work on the campus every day and who share a vision for our future,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “Theirs is one of the very best of the many stories we have to tell in this transforming effort. We are so grateful to our faculty and staff for their outstanding response to the campaign.”

“It is so wonderful that such a substantial percentage of our dedicated faculty and staff have provided financial support for our campaign at such a significant level,” said Bob Coffman, vice-president for Advancement at Anderson University. “The level of participation on-campus is truly remarkable within higher education circles. This kind of commitment is viewed as a very positive factor by other potential donors from outside the campus community as they consider their own gifts.”

“In addition to the outstanding contributions our faculty and staff make daily in support of the mission of AU, the high percentage of individuals willing to participate in the on-campus portion of the campaign is truly an example of going the extra mile,” said Janet Brewer, director of Nicholson Library at Anderson University and co-chair of the On-Campus Campaign Initiative.

The campaign will raise support for endowment and scholarships; facilities and equipment; academic and student programs; and operational needs. Major components of the campaign include $51 million for capital projects, $34 million for endowment and $25 for operational support. At the time of launch, the university announced that more than $61 million had been received in gifts and commitments. The last major campaign effort for Anderson University, with a goal of $75 million, ended in 1999 and raised $83.7 million.

Gospel music legends Bill and Gloria Gaither serve as co-chairs of the National Campaign Advisory Commission. Co-chairing the National Campaign Cabinet are Tom L. Ward, chairman of the Board of Directors and chief executive officer of SandRidge Energy, Inc.; and James B. Winner, president of Winner Advisors.

For more information about the “Dreams. Discovery. Direction.” campaign for Anderson University, visit the campaign site or contact the Anderson University Office of Development at (800) 421-1025.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“We are deeply grateful to so many of our friends, alumni and wider sources of support who have joined us in this transformational campaign,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “‘Dreams, Discovery, Direction,’” is a campaign that expresses the hopes we have for our students and for those who will join us in this work in years to come. We are on schedule because of the devotion so many have for the mission of Anderson University. While we have a long way to go to reach our goal of $110 million, we receive this support as an expression of confidence that our life changing work is deeply meaningful to those who have made this impressive interim report possible, our generous donors.”

The campaign will raise support for endowment and scholarships; facilities and equipment; academic and student programs; and operational needs. Major components of the campaign include $51 million for capital projects, $34 million for endowment and $25 million for operational support. At the time of launch, the university announced that more than $61 million had been received in gifts and commitments. The last major campaign effort for Anderson University, with a goal of $75 million, ended in 1999 and raised $83.7 million.

“We are extremely gratified by the way in which friends of Anderson University have responded to the vision set forth in the ‘Dreams, Discovery, Direction,’ campaign,” said Bob Coffman, vice-president for Advancement at Anderson University. “This early success in the public phase of the campaign has fueled our optimism as we work to involve wider circles of our constituents.”

Gospel music legends Bill and Gloria Gaither serve as co-chairs of the National Campaign Advisory Commission. Co-chairing the National Campaign Cabinet is Tom L. Ward, chairman of the Board of Directors and chief executive officer of SandRidge Energy, Inc.; and James B. Winner, president of Winner Advisors.

For more information about the “Dreams, Discovery, Direction,” campaign for Anderson University, visit www.anderson/campaign or contact the Anderson University Office of Development at (800) 421-1025.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“The grand traditions of musical talent of Anderson University students and faculty have begged for a facility such as the one being planned for the near future,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “Dr. James and Dr. Elizabeth York have a love for so many of the quality programs of this university, and a much needed recital hall is one more expression of their passion for our work. With their help we are again stepping into a future of such promise for our students and faculty.”

“Both Jim and I grew up in families that loved music,” said Dr. Elizabeth York. “Music-both singing and instrumental-has always been a large part of our life. Over the years, we have heard great symphonies and have experienced church music that has shaped our hearts and developed our appreciation. It is with a deep gratitude that we support of this project.”

Anderson University students who choose music as an academic major or minor at Anderson University must perform a solo recital as part of graduation requirements. Because music is among the university’s top five majors, student recitals are regular events on campus. The 75 music recitals that faculty, students, and guest artists perform in a typical year currently take place in two classrooms that lack permanent seating, a stage, and professional lighting.

The goal of each recital is to showcase the talent of the student artist in a professional setting. The performer, dressed in formal attire, presents a well-rehearsed program for an audience of peers, professors, family, and friends. A reception honoring the student artist usually follows. A well-constructed recital hall is an important recruitment and retention tool.

“All of us in the School of Music are excited about the prospect of a performance venue that will properly showcase the immense talent of our students, faculty and guest artists,” said Dr. Jeffrey Wright, dean of the College of the Arts. “We have waited many years for this to become a reality, and we are delighted that the York family shares our vision for elevating music to new levels of visibility and viability on our campus and in our community. This space will make a tremendous difference in our ability to attract and retain the highest levels of talent for the School of Music.”

“We are so grateful for the commitment and support of the York family.” said Bob Coffman, vice-president for Advancement at Anderson University. “This new facility will provide a world-class environment in which our students and faculty will perform. Through their generosity, Dr. James and Dr. Elizabeth York are a making a significant difference in the live our students.”

In addition to their love for music, the Yorks have a special love for books and have provided generous funding for the creation of a Rare Boos and Special Collections area in the Anderson University Nicholson Library. They have already made gifts of many special editions that will be housed in that collection.

Dr. James and Dr. Elizabeth York have given of their time and resources to make a difference in people’s lives. Their giving spirit was what convinced the couple that Dr. James York should retire early from his practice of orthopedic surgery so that they could work in mission hospitals throughout Africa. It also prompted them to contribute to the Harry L. and Henrietta Harp Endowed Memorial Fund at Anderson University. And it is one of the primary reasons they created the James M. York, M.D., and Elizabeth H. York Endowed Scholarship Fund through the Anderson University School of Theology.

Dr. Elizabeth York’s parents, Rev. Harry and Henrietta Harp, were active in the Church of God, and it was in their honor that their children established the Harp Endowed Memorial Fund. The fund supports the Harp Lectures in Christian Theology and Leadership at Anderson University and provides an annual award (known as the Harry L. and Henrietta Harp Memorial Award) to a graduating seminary student who has made the most outstanding accomplishment in congregational ministries. Future plans for the fund include support of a visiting professorship.

Advocates of lifelong learning, the Yorks established the York Endowed Scholarship Fund through the Anderson University School of Theology that is designed to reduce tuition expenses for deserving seminary students and promote a healthy diversity within the seminary community. Recently, the York supported the current construction on the second phase of York Seminary Village south of Decker Hall. The construction project, consisting of 4 buildings, will be located on the east side of Walnut Street, between 6th and 7th streets, in Anderson. The total project will consist of 20 apartments and a community center in 8 buildings. The first phase of York Seminary Village was dedicated on August 16, 2006.

Dr. Elizabeth York came to Anderson University in 1949. She later married Dr. James M. York, a graduate of Johns Hopkins University Medical School, and they spent the next several years in various locations as Dr. James York completed his orthopedic surgery training. As they traveled, Elizabeth continued her undergraduate studies, graduating from Rutgers University in New Jersey. Dr. James York took early retirement after 32 years of practice and volunteered his surgical skills at mission hospitals throughout Africa. The couple served hospitals in Kenya, Cameroon, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. In all, they served as short term missionaries for six years.

The campaign, set to conclude on May 31, 2010, is the university’s largest fundraising effort to date which marked $57 million raised toward the goal at the time of the launch. Major components of the campaign include $51 million for capital projects, $34 million for endowment and $25 for operational support.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

On October 6, 2006, the university launched a $110 million campaign entitled; “Dreams, Discovery, Direction.” The campaign, set to conclude on May 31, 2010, is the university’s largest fundraising effort and has raised $63.9 million to date toward the goal. Major components of the campaign include $51 million for capital projects, $34 million for endowment and $25 for operational support. For more information about the “Dreams, Discovery, Direction” campaign visit the web site at www.anderson.edu/campaign.

Dr. James and Elizabeth York have given of their time and resources to make a difference in people’s lives. Their giving spirit was what convinced the couple that Dr. York should retire early from his practice of orthopedic surgery so that they could work in mission hospitals throughout Africa. It also prompted them to contribute to the Harry L. and Henrietta Harp Endowed Memorial Fund at Anderson University. And it is one of the primary reasons they created the James M. York, M.D., and Elizabeth H. York Endowed Scholarship Fund through the Anderson University School of Theology.

Mrs. York’s parents, Rev. Harry and Henrietta Harp, were active in the Church of God, and it was in their honor that their children established the Harp Endowed Memorial Fund. The fund supports the Harp Lectures in Christian Theology and Leadership at Anderson University and provides an annual award (known as the Harry L. and Henrietta Harp Memorial Award) to a graduating seminary student who has made the most outstanding accomplishment in congregational ministries. Future plans for the fund include support of a visiting professorship.

Advocates of lifelong learning, the Yorks recently established the York Endowed Scholarship Fund through the Anderson University School of Theology that is designed to reduce tuition expenses for deserving seminary students and promote a healthy diversity within the seminary community.

Mrs. York came to Anderson University in 1949. She later married Dr. James M. York, a graduate of Johns Hopkins University Medical School, and they spent the next several years in various locations as Dr. York completed his orthopedic surgery training. As they traveled, Elizabeth continued her undergraduate studies, graduating from Rutgers University in New Jersey. Dr. York took early retirement after 32 years of practice and volunteered his surgical skills at mission hospitals throughout Africa. The couple served hospitals in Kenya, Cameroon, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. In all, they served as short term missionaries for six years.

Anderson University is a private, four-year, Christian liberal arts institution of approximately 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, the university offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“We have been building a platform for this campaign and now we’re at the point to take the next step in our development as an institution,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University [watch President Edwards discuss the campaign on Inside Indiana Business with Gerry Dick]. “This campaign will help identify the dreams of many who make up the AU family as they merge with needs and the unique opportunities of our mission. One of the main goals of this campaign will be to continue to bring distinction to the experiences that students, alumni and friends encounter at this university. They have a great stake in our success.”

“Anderson University has laid out a compelling and transformational vision for the future that will strengthen every aspect of the institution and keep it firmly rooted in its historic mission,” said Bill and Gloria Gaither, gospel music legends and National Campaign Advisory Commission co-chairs. “It is an ambitious vision—one that will require all of us to step-up to the challenge in bold new ways proportional to our ability. We are proud to invite others to join us in building that future.”

The last major campaign effort for Anderson University ended in 1999 and raised $83.7 million [picture: proposed Student Center].

“The vision of this campaign seems to have captured the imaginations of many long-time friends of the university,” said Bob Coffman, vice-president for Advancement at Anderson University. “Several have already come forward with major commitments and we have been fortunate to build strong relationships with new friends as well. The campaign presents an opportunity not only to strengthen the institution financially but also to strengthen our ties with alumni, parents and friends across the country and around the world.”

Co-chairing the National Campaign Cabinet will be Tom L. Ward, chairman of the Board of Directors and chief executive officer of SandRidge Energy Inc.; and James B. Winner, president of Winner Advisors [picture: proposed Recital Hall].

“In business, you can tell a lot about a company by the quality of its product,” said Ward. “I first came to know and appreciate Anderson University by observing the quality of its product: outstanding alumni who were leaders in the community and in the church. The future depends upon leaders equipped with a world-class education and a mature faith to face tomorrow’s challenges. The world needs our product. Let’s build it together.”

“You can’t support everything. I understand that,” said Winner. “You have to pick something you believe in and have faith and confidence in. When I see the quality and caliber of graduates coming out of Anderson University, there’s no question that we’re on the verge of doing even greater things.” [picture: proposed University Center].

Anderson University is a private, four-year, Christian liberal arts institution of approximately 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, the university offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, music, nursing, education and theology.

“York Seminary Village adds an exciting new dimension to the nature of seminary education at the School of Theology,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “Housing is more than a convenient necessity. It adds the dimension of a living and learning community to the seminary experience. We believe this residential element will greatly enhance the breadth and depth of students and families preparing for ministry.”

The project is being developed in phases. Phases II will be located on the east side of Walnut Street, a mirror image of Phase I. Construction of Phase II will begin as the need and demand arise. The total project will consist of 20 apartments in 8 buildings, plus a community building.

“Through the generosity of the Yorks, we have been able to accelerate the time frame for fulfilling a long-standing institutional dream,” said Bob Coffman, vice-president for Advancement. “Their support for this project is the most recent of many gifts that are making a significant difference in the lives of our students.

Dr. James and Elizabeth York have given of their time and resources to make a difference in people’s lives. Their giving spirit was what convinced the couple that Dr. York should retire early from his practice of orthopedic surgery so that they could work in mission hospitals throughout Africa. It also prompted them to contribute to the Harry L. and Henrietta Harp Endowed Memorial Fund at Anderson University. And it is one of the primary reasons they created the James M. York, M.D., and Elizabeth H. York Endowed Scholarship Fund through the Anderson University School of Theology.

Mrs. York’s parents, Rev. Harry and Henrietta Harp, were active in the Church of God, and it was in their honor that their children established the Harp Endowed Memorial Fund. The fund supports the Harp Lectures in Christian Theology and Leadership at Anderson University and provides an annual award (known as the Harry L. and Henrietta Harp Memorial Award) to a graduating seminary student who has made the most outstanding accomplishment in congregational ministries. Future plans for the fund include support of a visiting professorship.

Advocates of lifelong learning, the Yorks recently established the York Endowed Scholarship Fund through the Anderson University School of Theology that is designed to reduce tuition expenses for deserving seminary students and promote a healthy diversity within the seminary community.

Mrs. York came to Anderson University in 1949. She later married Dr. James M. York, a graduate of Johns Hopkins University Medical School, and they spent the next several years in various locations as Dr. York completed his orthopedic surgery training. As they traveled, Elizabeth continued her undergraduate studies, graduating from Rutgers University in New Jersey. Dr. York took early retirement after 32 years of practice and volunteered his surgical skills at mission hospitals throughout Africa. The couple served hospitals in Kenya, Cameroon, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. In all, they served as short term missionaries for six years.

The Yorks have given generously to the Anderson University School of Theology and the university is grateful they have committed resources for the construction of the new seminary housing project on the south side of the campus.

Anderson University is a private, four-year, Christian liberal arts institution of approximately 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, the university offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Speaking during the event was Dr. James Edwards, president of Anderson University; Kevin Smith, mayor of the City of Anderson; Dr. Dennis Depew, dean of the College of Technology at Purdue University; Charles Staley, president and CEO of the Flagship Enterprise Center; and Dr. Terry Truiit, dean of the Falls School of Business At Anderson University [watch Dr. James Edwards make remarks during groundbreaking event--requires Windows Media Player 9].

“This educational facility will provide access to Anderson University’s programs for many growing communities along the I-69 corridor,” said President James L. Edwards, Anderson University. “We will continue to provide collaborative leadership at this important site to enhance the educational and economic development of the region.

The new facility will be built for a cost of approximately $7 million and will be divided into three floors of operational space. The first floor will provide approximately 27,000 square-feet for classrooms, faculty and staff offices and a professional development center accommodating 150 persons. The second floor will provide 16,400 square-feet for the Purdue College of Technology statewide location in Anderson, as well as classrooms and breakout spaces. The third floor will provide 9,700 square-feet for efficiency apartments to house daytime MBA students and/or upper-division entrepreneurship students.

“Through this initiative and continued partnership with Anderson University, Purdue University students will have the best possible educational experience,” said Dr. Niaz Latif, assistant dean for Administration and Budget for Purdue’s Statewide Technology. “In addition, the new facility will allow us to better meet the educational needs our citizens by engaging the region’s business and industry.

“This new endeavor helps set the table for continued economic growth,” said Dr. Terry Truitt, dean of the Falls School of Business at Anderson University. “Adding the academic ingredient to the existing economic activity stirs the entrepreneurial pot. “This Education Center is further evidence that the greater Anderson community is on the right track toward building the foundation for strong economic growth.”

“The success of a business incubator, such as the Flagship Enterprise Center, is increased exponentially by a close working relationship to a university,” said Charles Staley, CEO of the Flagship Enterprise Center. “The presence of Anderson University and Purdue University will insure that success, anchor both universities on the I-69 corridor and continue to link Anderson and Madison County to the rapidly growing Northern Indianapolis area.”

The architectural firm of K.R. Montgomery and Associates in Anderson will design the project in coordination with GDI Construction Corp., the primary contractor for the project. Funding for construction of the education center will come from tax-exempt debt financing.

Anderson University is a private, four-year, Christian liberal arts institution of approximately 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, the university offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, music, nursing, education and theology.