SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – Evangel University is amidst a record-breaking “summer of generosity,” receiving over $20 million in philanthropic support in the last six weeks—the most impactful and transformative season of giving in the institution’s history.
Included is a $12 million gift from the estate of Robert and Sandra Graper, $6 million from David Green, founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby and Mardel and advocate for Christian higher education, and $2 million from Daryl and Lois Flood, longtime EU supporters. A residence hall currently under construction on Evangel’s campus is named in their honor.
With the latest contributions, total giving and grants to Evangel University over the past 44 months have surpassed $117 million.
“This summer will be remembered not just for what was given, but for what it made possible,” said EU President Dr. Mike Rakes. “We’ve witnessed an outpouring of generosity that signals more than financial strength—it reveals a shared faith in the mission and future of our university.”
The $12 million gift from the Graper estate is the largest single donation in Evangel’s 70-year history and reflects a deeply personal legacy—four of the Grapers’ six children are Evangel alumni. This is the second major contribution to EU from the Graper family, following a $5.6 million legacy gift in December 2024.
The Graper’s $12 million gift will be endowed to provide scholarships for students preparing for ministry, ensuring future generations are equipped to serve.
The additional $8 million will further strengthen the university’s capacity to pursue strategic priorities and meet the needs of its growing student body.
“Together we are building more than walls of brick and stone; we are launching callings, stewarding legacies, and preparing a generation to lead with virtue and vision,” said Rakes.
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Evangel University, with its embedded Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), is a comprehensive Spirit-led Christian university located in Springfield, Missouri. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. Under the leadership of Dr. Mike Rakes, EU is committed to excellence in educating and equipping students to serve the Church and society globally and becoming compassionate innovators in their chosen vocations. EU offers more than 70 degree programs, including cutting-edge majors, pre-professional programs, and affordable and flexible online degree options.
EU is highly regarded and has been ranked:
- #1 Best College in Springfield & #2 Best Christian College in Missouri by Niche
- US News & World Report Best Colleges Top Performer in Social Mobility
- Colleges of Distinction Best Christian University
- Top 10 Best Universities by AcademicInfluence.com
- Third Most Beautiful Campus in the Midwest by Christian Colleges & Universities
- Top 10 Best Colleges in Missouri by BestColleges.com
With additional accreditations in business, counseling, music, social work, and theology and certification as an Excellence in Giving university, EU is focused on providing students with hands-on experience and real-world training for today’s professional careers. Learn more about the university at evangel.edu