SPRINGFIELD, Mo., July 22, 2025 – Drury University donors committed more than $11.8 million in Fiscal Year 2025 (June 1, 2024 – May 31, 2025) in outright gifts, pledge payments, and future commitments, helping advance the university’s mission to develop students into engaged global citizens and community leaders.
A highlight of the year was the second-highest performance ever in annual giving with more than $3.2 million being contributed to the Drury Student Success Fund. This fund provides immediate-use support that enhances every aspect of the student experience—from scholarships and academic support to career preparation and campus life. The success of the annual fund was significantly boosted by the O’Reilly-Wooten Challenge, which issued $1.5 million in matching funds.
“We are especially grateful for the exceptional support of the O’Reilly and Wooten families and their Student Success matching challenge, which inspired others to give, and helped elevate our impact,” Drury University President Jeff Frederick said. “We celebrate the O’Reilly and Wooten families and all our donors that made this year a success.”
In addition to outright gifts and pledges totaling more than $6.6 million, donors also committed $5.2 million in future support through new pledges and new planned gifts. These new commitments contribute to the momentum of Drury’s comprehensive Fortify the Future Campaign. The campaign, which continues through May 31, 2027, provides support for student scholarships, endowments, heritage facilities, and development initiatives.
“This year’s fundraising success is a testament to the incredible generosity of the Drury community and our shared commitment to student success,” Frederick said. “Drury is a university like no other, blending personalized education and practical application with community service and leadership development. Drury has launched cutting edge new programs like electrical and mechanical engineering, physician assistant, and will start three new graduate programs in the Fall, all while treating each student as a name and not a number.”
The conclusion of the 2025 fiscal year also marks the end of Frederick’s first year leading the university. His dynamic leadership and deep community engagement have already made a significant impact connecting the community with the campus.
“President Frederick is bringing bold ideas and tireless energy to Drury University,” said Walt George ‘79, Chair of the Drury Board of Trustees. “His leadership is strengthening the institution and reaffirming Drury’s place in the Springfield community and beyond.”
For more information about the Fortify the Future campaign or to make a gift, visit drury.edu/fortify.
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Media Contact: Cris Belvin, Director of University Communications & Media Relations | (417) 873-7392 | gbelvin@drury.edu