STILLWATER, Okla. –Orange cowboy cookies, frisbees with the words “The Code Calls,” and social media videos over the last week all lead to Thursday morning’s announcement about Oklahoma State University’s $2 billion dollar fundraising campaign.
OSU President Jim Hess announced the campaign at the McKnight Center for the Performing Arts alongside member of the OSU Foundation, the university’s private fundraising organization. Hess called the name of the campaign a nod to the Cowboy Code, principles that embody the OSU spirit.
This effort began raising money in 2021 and it’s already up to nearly $900 million from “more than 81,000 alumni and friends.”
The 1988 Heisman Trophy winner and OSU alumnus, Barry Sanders, is one of the donors.
“With a goal of $2 billion, we call on all Cowboys to invest in our future,” said Sanders.
In a press release, the campaign lists four core pillars it plans to build on, and said the campaign will benefit students “through scholarships, mental health support, mentorship, and career development.”
- Living the Cowboy Way: Supporting student leadership, mentorship, and well-being.
- Creating Life-Changing Opportunities: Expanding scholarships and access to education.
- Leading with Humility: Advancing academic and athletic excellence and career readiness.
- Powering Progress: Driving innovation and solving real-world challenges.
