The Kirkwood Foundation has publicly launched a $15 million fundraising campaign aimed at expanding scholarships, upgrading health care program technology and strengthening workforce development across Kirkwood Community College’s seven-county service area.
The campaign, titled “The Community’s College – The Community’s Future,” has already raised $11 million — 75% of its goal — according to the foundation.
A $3 million gift from the Tippie family anchors the effort, with additional support from private and corporate donors. A full list of leadership-level donors is available at kirkwood.edu/community.
The campaign targets five areas:
- Scholarships, including expanded access for diploma and certificate programs;
- A student success fund for support beyond tuition;
- Health care program technology upgrades;
- English language acquisition classes; and
- An innovation fund for new programs.
A $1 million match challenge for presidential and Leaders for Tomorrow scholarships gives donors the opportunity to double their contributions. All living Kirkwood presidents have given at the leadership level, according to the foundation.
“This campaign is about more than fundraising — it’s about creating opportunity and strengthening the communities we serve,” said Jody Pellerin, Kirkwood’s vice president of advancement. “Because most of our graduates stay and work in this region, every gift supports not only our students, but also local employers, health care systems, and the long-term vitality of our communities.”
Community members can contribute financially, through matching gifts or by promoting the campaign. More information is available at kirkwood.edu/community.
Kirkwood, based in Cedar Rapids, enrolls more than 17,000 annual college-credit students across more than 140 majors and programs and offers more than $3 million in scholarships each year.
