Mizzou Launches Historic Campaign to Address Global Challenges and Improve Lives

COLUMBIA, Mo., Sept. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Missouri has launched the largest fundraising campaign in its 186-year history. Uniting alumni, friends and partners, the transformational initiative will shape the future of Mizzou's campus, impacting education, research, community engagement and health care.

University of Missouri President Mun Choi joined the University of Missouri Board of Curators, faculty, staff and guests today to kick off the campaign at a public celebration.

"This is a pivotal moment in Mizzou's history and a generational opportunity to expand our contributions to society," Choi said. "With this campaign, we are advancing a bold vision to transform lives, fuel research innovations, compete for championships and strengthen Missouri communities."

With a landmark goal to raise $2 billion, the initiative, "Power the Roar," ranks among the largest campaigns ever undertaken by a U.S. public university.

"This campaign builds on the strong support Mizzou receives from the State of Missouri and amplifies the vital contributions of our land-grant mission," Todd Graves, chair of the UM Board of Curators, said. "We are grateful for the incredible support this campaign has received, and we are confident that Power the Roar will continue to build on this university's mission to benefit all Missourians."

Power the Roar is focused on five priorities that continue to elevate Mizzou's mission and expand its reach. That includes educating future leaders through the Missouri Method; creating life-saving medicines; leveraging expertise in agriculture, engineering and science to improve lives; strengthening communities through education and economic development; and developing champions on and off the field.

The campaign will be donor-driven, empowering supporters to help shape university priorities and directly impact initiatives they care about.

"From its inception, Mizzou has been an institution built on generosity, and it's inspiring to see donors, alumni and volunteers sustain that legacy through Power the Roar," Chris Smith, Mizzou's vice chancellor for advancement, said. "Through philanthropy, they are making a tangible difference, empowering students, driving discovery and creating opportunities that change lives."

The campaign's leadership, or quiet phase, began July 1, 2022. Since then, more than 61,000 donors have contributed nearly $760 million, with broad support for all colleges and programs. This past year, rising momentum propelled Mizzou to its best fundraising year with $269 million raised, and significant gifts are already empowering students and driving innovation aligned with the campaign's priorities.

Power the Roar is supported by a volunteer campaign committee co-chaired by Mizzou alumnus Paul Vogel, and his wife, Lynn Ann, of St. Louis.

"Alumni know firsthand the value of a Mizzou education and the lasting connections it creates for students, families and communities," Paul Vogel, managing partner with Vogel Law Office, said. "Through Power the Roar, we can extend that legacy, ensuring Mizzou remains a leader in education, discovery and service far beyond our campus."

Other committee members include Brett Begeman (Chesterfield, Missouri); Roger Harris and Jane Harris (Naples, Florida); Patricia Hummel and Robert C. Hummel II (Leawood, Kansas); Reuben Merideth (Fayette, Missouri); Richard Miller (Pittsburg, Kansas); and Frank Shelden and Val Lawlor (Dallas).

"Mizzou is part of our traditions and shared memories, like so many families, and it is deeply meaningful to give back," Lynn Ann Vogel, also a partner with Vogel Law Office, said. "It is an honor to serve alongside so many passionate alumni and supporters who share our love for this institution and our commitment to ensuring it continues for generations of Tigers to come."

SOURCE University of Missouri