NSU Horizons Spring 2018

a Special Olympics chapter located on its campus. The special athletes of Broward County have full access to the 366,000-square-foot Don Taft University Center, which includes the state-of-the-art Rick Case Arena, an Olympic- sized swimming pool, and other athletic facilities. LAUNCHING A MOVEMENT After celebrating NSU’s 50th Anniversary in 2014, NSU’s Board of Trustees decided to focus the university’s fund-raising efforts around three essential priorities— students, faculty, and 21st-century education. Inspired by the university’s vision, storytelling, and priority, segmented goals and momentum increased. In January 2016, Realiz- ing Potential—The Campaign for Nova Southeastern University celebrated both the public launch and reaching its halfway point during its Celebration of Excellence. (Visit realizingpotential.nova.edu / to learn more.) As of December 31, 2017, there were 61,010 campaign gifts given by 33,570 donors, 28,066 of which were new. While some gifts are still awaiting designation, NSU does have a prelimi- nary breakdown of gifts by priority. For students attending NSU campuses, sites, and online globally, the campaign aimed to raise $125 million, surpassing that goal by raising $140.8 million. These funds will be used for • scholarships • fellowships • experiential learning • mentor programs • study abroad • internships • career center support • conference travel • practicums • Farquhar Honors College For faculty and research, the $50.5 million raised will go to • endowed chairs • professorships • research funds • innovation funds • integrated curriculum experiences For 21st-century education, the $61.2 million raised will support • NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale • NSU Mailman Segal Center for Human Development • NSU University School • autism services • Marine Environmental Education Center CELEBRATION AND REFLECTION Now that the campaign has surpassed its goals, it’s time to celebrate. The end of the campaign marks the beginning of a period of reflection, a time to share stories and discuss the impact of donations. An entrepreneurial university like NSU is never satisfied with the status quo. NSU still has a vision, and always has the capacity for partnering with individuals who seek to make a difference in Realizing Potential. ¨ A gift in 2008 from H. Wayne Huizenga (top photo, standing) was one of two that helped lead the way for the Realizing Potential campaign. The second, from Don Taft, allows NSU to be the only private college with a Special Olympics chapter on its campus.