SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – Evangel University has realized a record-breaking giving total of over $31 million in the 13 months since the inauguration of Dr. Mike Rakes as president. The historic total shatters the previous giving record of $7 million raised in the 2020-2021 academic year. Rakes is the fifth president of Evangel.
“I am thrilled we’ve raised more than 30 million dollars in 13 months as we continue our efforts to enhance the student experience at Evangel,” said Rakes. “It is clear that there is distinct favor on the university in this season, and we are moving full steam ahead into the future.”
The Green, Flood, and Rowden families made sizeable contributions towards the $31 million total, which continues to increase each month. Also included in the total is $6 million dollars in grant funding from the Lilly Endowment.
In addition to the unprecedented giving, Evangel has experienced significant enrollment growth under Rakes’ leadership. The 2022-2023 school year saw an increase of more than 350 students, or 11% growth, exceeding Rakes’ stated public goal of 100 students.
Throughout the spring and summer, numerous campus upgrade and renewal projects were completed, including the construction of lighted Valor basketball courts just outside the upgraded student union, installation of underground gas lines to begin the process of de-centralizing EU’s decades-old steam system, and Spence Chapel upgrades including new audio and acoustical technology, high capacity air conditioning units, and new exterior roof panel painting.
This summer, EU also kicked off the Here.Now. Campaign to fully fund the construction of a new fieldhouse and sports complex, install a lighted artificial turf intramural field, and fully renovate a residence hall.
Details about additional campus upgrades will be announced in the coming months.
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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:
- 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.