The successful finish of Redeemer鈥檚 , an alumni fundraising competition, marks a milestone in the 鈥 the largest fundraising campaign in the university鈥檚 history.
The larger Re Campaign, which launched publicly in April 2017, is funding the Redeemer 2020 Strategic Plan and its three major priorities: renewing the academic program, raising the university鈥檚 profile and securing a stable financial foundation. At the time of writing, $17.3 million 鈥 86 per cent of the $20 million campaign goal 鈥 has been raised.
Through the ReMatch Challenge, nearly 300 alumni donors raised $59,855 鈥 with participation from every graduating class since Redeemer鈥檚 first in 1986. Together with the original group that challenged all the rest, alumni have contributed over $400,000 to the Re Campaign.
Graduating classes competed over 35 days 鈥 which represented Redeemer鈥檚 35 year history 鈥 to be named either the class with the most donations, of any size, or the class that had raised the most. In the end, the class of 2014 won with the most donors at a total of 24 and the class of 2006 won by donating the highest amount, $8,820. Each member of the winning classes received a sampler box of pre-ground coffee from which is owned and operated by alumni Jason ’99 and Rachel ’99 Hofing in Hamilton.
Every dollar raised is making a direct impact. The campaign funds the initiatives of Redeemer鈥檚 2020 Strategic Plan, including:
Together, the priorities of the 2020 Strategic Plan strengthen the impact of Redeemer鈥檚 mission, ensuring that it is revitalized for the next generation of students. 鈥淩edeemer stands for something different. We offer an education that is centred on the whole person: body and mind, heart and soul. The world needs these engaged citizens in all areas of life and needs the diverse perspectives they bring to the complex questions we face,鈥 said Dr. David Zietsma, vice president, external relations and enrolment. 鈥淚t needs people who can do that while reflecting the love and hope of Jesus Christ. The Re Campaign, and the 2020 Strategic Plan it funds, will enable Redeemer to pursue this mission with relevance and vitality.鈥