The June 6 campaign kick-off was a morning of colorful balloons, rousing music and soaring spirits. The ceremony began in Steinert Campus Center with a fond look at where FPU has been and a confident view of the future.
Throughout the 50-minute event ran affirmation of what the university stands for, who it serves and all who have made it possible. "We will succeed. With God's help--and with yours," Ewert said.
Among the speakers were co-chairs Larry and Paula Warkentin and J. Scott and Deborah Leonard. Larry Warkentin, emeritus music faculty, recalled hearing a student ensemble when he was 10 years old. "Without that outreach...the university certainly wouldn't be what it is today," he said.
Scott Leonard, CEO of Guarantee Real Estate, and others talked about how faith and knowledge transform students into professionally prepared and ethical leaders. "Buildings without people are just shells," he said.
Faculty, staff and trustees have already participated in the campaign. Over the next year, the invitation will go out to alumni, foundations, the community and the region.
There is exciting work ahead. "Thirty six million dollars is nothing for God," Scott Leonard said.