A FIRM FOUNDATION
FOR THE FUTURE

Our next chapter begins with ATHENS FOREVER, the Endowment Campaign. As the current caretakers of this historic place, made possible by the dreams of those early few, we are responsible for ensuring that the story continues. History will judge us based on our stewardship of the legacy that our predecessors handed down to us, the women and men who have benefitted from this place we call Athens.

Our history records two such prior efforts, one in 1914 and another in 1925, both led by President Mary Norman Moore McCoy. These efforts were launched to pay off construction debt and establish an endowment. These campaigns struggled and were ultimately unsuccessful due to world wars and economic crisis. In 1975, when Athens State became a part of the Alabama Higher Education System, all gifted assets accumulated over the years were sold to pay off debt, and the physical assets were transferred to the state. As a result of these changes, efforts to endow the University had to restart where they began in 1914.

On August 5, 2017, we launched the silent phase of a capital campaign that will conclude at our grand celebration on Friday, July 29, 2022. Our goal is to raise $20 million, much of which will be used to endow scholarships and infrastructure. Ensuring that the University has secured funds which generate income will provide the cornerstone upon which the foundation for our future will be built. A firm foundation will help us support our commitment to students as we enter our third century as an institution of higher learning.

We invite you to become a part of “Athens Forever” and help us build this foundation.