Drury boosts annual fundraising to nearly $1M

With a boost from its second-annual 531 Challenge, Drury University increased annual fundraising by over 50 percent for the academic year.

The challenge campaign, which began in April with the goal of attracting 531 donors by May 31, raised more than $180,700 through 615 donors, including a challenge gift of $20,000 from Drury trustee Bill Vaughan, chairman and president of Bank of Urbana, if the participation goal was met, according to a news release.

In all, Drury brought in fundraising dollars of $940,000 for the year started June 1, 2014, up 50 percent from $623,000 in the prior year, spokesman Mike Brothers said.

Funding goes toward the Drury Fund, which is used to support student needs including academics and scholarships.

“The commitment and support of Drury alumni is essential for the university’s continued success,” President David Manuel said in the release of donations from alumni, friends of the school, parents and current students.