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2800 W. Gore Boulevard Lawton, OK (580) 581-2999

www.cameron.edu/foundation

CAMERON UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Alumni and Friends:

On behalf of Cameron University, I sincerely thank you for your unwavering support throughout the past year. Whether you are an alumnus, faculty member, staff member, community leader, or friend, your contributions are vital in helping us provide exceptional educational experiences at great value.

This year, your generosity has enabled significant advancements in our Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs. We are excited to announce that construction will soon begin on state-of-the-art engineering spaces in the CETES building and new computing and technology labs in Howell Hall. These upgrades are essential as we continue to align our academic programs with the evolving needs of Oklahoma’s workforce and prepare our students for success in competitive fields.

We are also transforming the Cameron Exchange building into the new Alumni Center, thanks to the generosity of our donors. This will be a central space for alumni to reconnect and engage with the university. While the official name of the building has not yet been announced, we look forward to sharing more details as we move through the new fiscal year.

Scholarships remain a cornerstone of our commitment to student success. This year, we created four new endowed scholarships, bringing our total to 151, a distinction that sets Cameron University apart from other institutions in Oklahoma. Your support helps make higher education more accessible and affordable for our students.

Additionally, the Endowed Faculty Program continues to strengthen the quality of our academic offerings. This year, we added another Endowed Lectureship, bringing the total number of faculty endowments to 85. These investments ensure that our dedicated faculty have the resources to provide an outstanding educational experience for our students.

We remain committed to being responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to us. Your continued support makes it possible for Cameron University to advance the educational, cultural, and economic development of our communities. I hope you find evidence of our stewardship in the reports that follow.

Thank you again for your generosity. Together, we are shaping the future of our students and empowering them to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Sincerely,

Jari Askins

University President

LETTER FROM THE CHAIR

Dear Friends of Cameron University:

It is both a privilege and an honor to have been a member of the Cameron University community for many years. As I reflect on my tenure as Chair of the Cameron University Foundation, I am filled with deep pride in what we have collectively achieved. One of the guiding principles that has inspired my work—and that of our Board—is the timeless wisdom of Benjamin Franklin: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” This resonates deeply, as your unwavering support makes this truth a reality for our students and the entire Southwest Oklahoma region.

This past year has been an extraordinary one for Cameron University. Through your generosity, we raised $1.9 million in private gifts and grants—an achievement that stands as a testament to the impact of your commitment to our university and its mission. Your investment in Cameron ensures that students have not only the opportunity to dream of a college education, but also the means to realize that dream. The ripple effect of your support extends far beyond the classroom, positively transforming families, communities, and the workforce across Southwest Oklahoma.

We are especially proud of our progress in expanding and enhancing our STEM programs. Throughout campus, you will see the tangible results of this investment—cutting-edge engineering spaces, newly designed computing and mathematics classrooms and labs, and a newly repurposed building designed to foster deeper connections between alumni and students.

Our commitment to student success remains a cornerstone of the Foundation’s mission. This year, four new endowed scholarships were established, providing essential resources to ensure more students can pursue their academic aspirations. Additionally, we have strengthened our faculty endowment through the creation of a new endowed lectureship, which will offer students invaluable opportunities for immersive, real-world learning experiences beyond the classroom.

We are also pleased to report that our partnership with Arvest Wealth Management has proven successful, yielding steady growth in our investment portfolio. As stewards of your trust, we continue to carefully monitor and manage these resources to maximize the support available to our students and faculty.

As my term as Chair ends, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the continued growth of Cameron University. It has been a true privilege to work alongside such dedicated individuals who share a passion for the success of our students and the betterment of our community. I am inspired by the outpouring of support from the entire Cameron family and look forward to witnessing even greater achievements in the years ahead.

Thank you for your continued belief in our mission and for your invaluable role in shaping the future of Cameron University.

Barbara Braught Chair, Cameron University Foundation

PORTFOLIO

JUNE 30, 2024

AMOUNT RAISED

$1,954,190

NUMBER OF GIFTS: 1,036 NUMBER OF DONORS

NUMBER OF MAJOR DONORS

NUMBER OF NEW ENDOWMENTS

5 TOTAL : WITH A BREAKDOWN OF 4 SCHOLARSHIPS AND 1 LECTURESHIP

CAMPAIGNS UNDERWAY: ALUMNI CENTER

FUNDRAISING GOAL: $511,500

NUMBER OF NEW DONORS

FUNDS RAISED: $439,000

CAMPAIGNS UNDERWAY

Alumni Center

Fundraising Goal; $511,500

Funds Raised: $439,000

The renovation of the Cameron Exchange, funded by generous gifts totaling $389,000 from Todd and Cindy Sanner and $50,000 from Ed Goeas, will transform the underutilized building into a dynamic hub for alumni-student engagement. This revitalized space will foster connections, providing a central location for alumni to reconnect with the university and one another. The upgraded facility will also support programming and collaboration, strengthening ties across generations and enhancing pride within the campus community.

COMETS (Cybersecurity, Computing, and Engineering Technology)

Fundraising Goal: $4,500,000

Funds Raised: $4,500,000

The successful funding of the COMETS initiative supports Cameron University’s Strategic Plan by addressing critical workforce needs in cybersecurity, computing, and engineering technology. With a projected 32% increase in cybersecurity jobs over the next decade, the project aligns with national trends. Key components include converting the CETES Conference Center into an Engineering Technology Center and renovating Howell Hall into a Cybersecurity and Computer Innovation Center. These state-of-the-art facilities will help prepare students for high-demand careers and ensure the university remains a leader in relevant education.

CUBI – Cameron University Banking Institute

Fundraising Goal: $250,000

Funds Raised: $110,000

Cameron University is addressing workforce needs in the banking sector by equipping students with essential credentials for career advancement. In collaboration with local financial institutions, the university has formed an advisory council to align curriculum with industry needs, offering internships and mentorships leading to job placements. The Banking and Finance Certificate, launched in Spring 2023, provides students with modern banking knowledge and hands-on experience. The program, open to both degree and non-degree students, has already certified 55 individuals, positioning them for success in the financial industry.

ANNUAL ENDOWMENT GOAL OF FOUR NEW ENDOWMENTS

A GLIMPSE INTO A DONOR

ANNUAL ENDOWMENT GOAL OF FOUR NEW ENDOWMENTS:

Fundraising Goal: - $100,000

Funds Raised: -$150,000

SCHOLARSHIPS ESTABLISHED DURING THE 2023-2024 YEAR:

Endowed Scholarships:

Te Ewell B. Lacy Endowed Scholarship

H. Glenn Williams Endowed Scholarship in Criminal Justice

Floyd J. Freeman Endowed Scholarship

Wichita National Life Endowed Scholarship

Faculty Positions:

Oty McArthur Endowed Lectureship for High Impact Student Experiences

New, In-progress Endowments:

Bill Burgess Endowed Scholarship

CUAA Alumni Center Endowment

John and Ginger Veal Endowed Scholarship

ARVEST BANK

Cameron University is proud to have had an enduring and impactful partnership with Arvest Bank, a relationship that has spanned more than two decades and continues to grow stronger each year. Over the years, Arvest has been a steadfast supporter of the university, contributing to a wide range of initiatives across various fields, from athletics to the arts, enriching the campus experience for both students and faculty.

A particularly notable example of Arvest’s commitment to Cameron University is its generous lead gift in support of the establishment of the Cameron University Banking Institute (CUBI). This institute plays a pivotal role in connecting students with the financial industry in Southwest Oklahoma, offering a unique opportunity for students to bridge classroom learning with hands-on, real-world application. Through CUBI, students gain invaluable industry knowledge, skills, and networking opportunities, positioning them for success in a competitive job market.

In addition to its support for CUBI, Arvest Bank has also contributed to the creation of the Arvest Ignite Intern Program. This initiative provides students with summer internship opportunities that offer meaningful, on-the-job experience. In many cases, these internships have led to full-time employment opportunities, underscoring the tangible benefits of this partnership for students’ professional development.

The collaboration between Cameron University and Arvest Bank is truly a testament to the power of community and corporate partnerships. By creating these educational and career opportunities, Arvest is helping to improve the lives of students and contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of Southwest Oklahoma and beyond. Cameron University is deeply grateful for Arvest’s continued support and looks forward to many more years of partnership in advancing higher education and preparing future leaders.

Total Awarded through privately funded scholarships and faculty endowments was $848,393

OUR GIVING PROGRAMS

AGGIE FUND

The Aggie Fund transforms Cameron University through scholarships, faculty support, and campus upgrades, creating exceptional learning environments. Donor contributions empower students and strengthen university operations

FACULTY ENDOWMENTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Endowed Scholarships, governed by dedicated funding agreements, provide crucial annual financial support to deserving students. They eliminate financial obstacles, allowing students to pursue their educational goals unhindered, often making advanced degrees attainable.”

These positions—endowed faculty positions, lectureships, or chairs—are awarded annually to faculty pursuing initiatives beyond traditional lectures. While supporting faculty initiatives, these awards ultimately benefit students in the classroom by funding research, trips, and more.

Project-Based Fundraising

Each year, targeted project fundraising addresses critical university needs, whether it’s new buildings, urgent academic requirements, or other pressing priorities identified for Cameron’s advancement

PRESIDENT’S PARTNERS

Since 1989, President’s Partners embodies Cameron University’s commitment to excellence, raising over $5.5 million. With donors contributing $1,000 annually, this society funds scholarships for 60+ students yearly, fostering affordable education and supporting transformative learning experiences across university programs.

1908 HERITAGE SOCIETY FOR PLANNED GIVING

Make a lasting impact by including Cameron University in your estate plan. Join the 1908 Heritage Society to secure a legacy that promotes accessible, high-caliber education for future generations

2023-2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mark Ashton Lawton, OK

Barry Beauchamp ‘74 Barbara Braught Lawton, OK Duncan, OK

Karen Burgess ‘80 Lawton, OK

Brad Cooksey ‘97 Lawton, OK

Noah “ABE” Cornish ‘90 Zoe DuRant ‘90 Oklahoma City, OK Lawton, OK

Cindy Firman ‘83 Lawton, OK

Don Gaskins Dallas, TX

Randy Gilliland Pat Hollis Lawton, OK Lawton, OK

David Isham ‘84 Lawton, OK

Howard Johnson Lawton, OK

Paul Korhonen ‘90 Lawton, OK

David Madigan Lawton, OK

Chase Massie ‘07 Lawton, OK

Amber Moser ‘09 Lawton, OK

Jennifer Meason ‘00 Walters, OK

Kim Patrick Cache, OK

George Porter Lawton, OK

Bridget Randle Lawton OK

LaDonna Smith Lawton, OK

John Veal ‘03 Lawton, OK

Lisa Wade Lawton, OK

Carter Waid Waurika, OK

BACKGROUND

Founded March 22, 1972, the Cameron University Foundation was established for the purpose of collecting, administering and disbursing gifts and endowments for the benefit and continuing support of Cameron University. The CU Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization governed by a Board of Directors composed principally of civic leaders of the region.

To accomplish our mission, our advancement staff works tirelessly to create relationships with the Lawton/Fort Sill community, foster a successful learning environment for CU students, and promote Cameron University as Southwestern Oklahoma’s top choice for a quality college education.

We hope that the information you find through your exploration of our website will answer most of your questions, however, please feel free to contact the Office of Advancement with any questions, comments, concerns or to contribute to Cameron University.