UNI raises nearly $158 million, tops fundraising goal

The University of Northern Iowa topped its campaign goal by nearly $8 million, raising more than $157.8 million for the Cedar Falls school, university officials announced Tuesday.

The seven-year Imagine the Impact campaign ended Dec. 31, 2012, a year ahead of schedule, officials said.

The largest-ever UNI campaign, Imagine the Impact was launched during challenging economic times but still managed to reflect the commitment of UNI alumni and friends, President Ben Allen said in a statement.

The primary goal of the campaign was to raise money for scholarships, faculty support and academic programs, officials said. More than $62 million was raised to support scholarships, and will help create 321 new scholarships.

Campaign gifts for program support and program enhancements totaled more than $86 million. The dollars will help support faculty chair positions and professorships.