Drury campaign climbs fundraising ladder

Drury University’s third-annual 531 Challenge fundraising campaign brought in more than $212,000, a 15 percent increase compared to last year.

The university exceeded its participation goal with 644 donors, a 5 percent increase from 2015, according to a news release.

The April and May campaign included a challenge donation of $50,000 by Drury alumna Bobbi Springer, the widow of Wallace Springer Jr., who served as chairman of the university’s board of trustees 1991-99. Her donation was contingent on Drury meeting its participation goal.

“The 531 event encouraged participation rather than a specific dollar amount, and we know that our alumni and friends care deeply about supporting the experiences of Drury students today and in the future,” said Andrea Battaglia, director of annual giving, in the release.

The funding is earmarked for the Drury Fund, which supports academics and scholarships.