In the 2025 fiscal year, Lindenwood University built on its recent fundraising success. For the third time in four years, the University raised more than $6 million to support the Lindenwood community.

In total, $6,329,698 in new gifts were made to the University, reflecting the generosity of 1,578 donors through 2,877 individual contributions. These gifts advanced student scholarships, athletics, and the launch of new academic programs, while also enhancing campus facilities and student experiences.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate another outstanding year of fundraising for Lindenwood University, and we get to do so because of our dedicated alumni and friends who generously support our mission,” Vice President of Advancement and Community Engagement Orrie Covert said. “Each gift made to Lindenwood is an investment in the people, places, and programs that make this university special.”

Having recently celebrated the ribbon cutting of the University’s new nursing program this fall, major gifts are already supporting students. Longtime University supporters, former Board of Trustees member Duane Flowers and his wife Linda Flowers contributed major gifts to this program, naming the Dorothy L. Mollett Simulation Lab after Linda’s mother. Corporate partner Omnicell made equipment donations, ensuring students have access to state-of-the-art facilities. Their generosity comes as the University welcomes its first cohort of nursing students and celebrates the program’s grand opening on September 4.

Donor enthusiasm was also on display during Giving Week 2025, which set a record of $339,919 in gifts from 716 donors, an increase of more than $74,000 over last year’s record-setting total. The week featured Butler Library challenge gifts from campus partner Sodexo and the William T. Kemper Foundation to help solidify the future of one of the University’s most treasured landmarks.

Several estate commitments reflected the lasting loyalty of the Lindenwood community. President Emeritus Dr. James Evans and his wife, Mrs. Lois Evans, longtime University supporters, made significant estate commitments to the University. Faculty member Janet Schulte pledged support for the LU Paramedicine program to ensure its continued success.

Student scholarships remained a central focus of giving. A realized estate gift from the late alumna Linda Szilvasy ’61 and a commitment from Valor Partners will provide immediate annual support, while four new endowed scholarships will benefit future generations of Lions.

• President of Stoneland Inc of St. Charles, Lalit Kar and Monica Kar for the NUMM Endowed Scholarship
• Alumnus Dr. Rick Read ’91 and his wife Charlotte Read for the Rick and Charlotte Read Endowed Scholarship in the Plaster College of Business and Entrepreneurship
• Alumna Carla Coleman ’73 for an unrestricted endowed scholarship
• Alumna Diane Goldtrap ’59 for the A. Curtis and Diane Goldtrap Endowed Scholarship for Theatre

Athletics also saw strong support in 2025. Donors contributed more than $960,000 to NCAA and student life sports. These gifts come at a pivotal time as Lindenwood completes its transition to full NCAA Division I membership.

Another successful year of fundraising ensures that Lindenwood continues to build on its strong tradition of philanthropy, creating opportunities for students, strengthening programs, and shaping the University’s future for years to come.