The history
The college launched Thrive in 2018 with a goal to raise $150 million for the overarching goals to "elevate student success, enhance academic excellence and transform the campus," according to a July 23 news release.
The breakdown
Funds from the Thrive campaign went to the following:
- $32 million for student assistance through financial aid and scholarships
- $16.5 million for student life initiatives
- $2.5 million to enhance advising and increase retention, including hiring first-year advisors
- $20 million to support academic excellence
- More than $20 million for construction and renovation of residential and academic buildings
Academic excellence measures include the addition of endowed chairs to several departments, research positions, student assistances and new equipment. Donations also allowed the creation of the Center for Teaching, Learning and Scholarship with a mission to continue professional growth.
What else?
Contributions toward school infrastructure helped renovate Mood-Bridwell Hall. The academic building, originally constructed in 1908, received new classroom space. Other buildings like the A. Frank Smith Jr. Library Center, Distinctive Collections and Professor John Score II Learning Commons also received upgrades.
Southwestern also constructed a new welcome center, planned to open next spring and house the Office of Admission and Financial Aid. The welcome center will also include an art gallery, cafe and theater.
Donations from Thrive have also contributed to plans for a new multipurpose sports complex. The building will be on the football practice field site and includes:
- A grandstand
- A stadium press box
- Synthetic turf
- Locker room
- A concourse area
