Viewpoint

JOHN P. RUSH '94, '02 President and CEO MSU Foundation

Realizing infinite possibilities for MSU

How big is one billion? When Infinite Impact began in 2010 with a goal of $600 million, that question seemed larger-thanlife. But just a few years later, after surpassing the initial goal faster than anyone thought possible, the standard was raised and what once was unimaginable became conceivable.

The momentous campaign concluded on June 30 of this year with an astonishing total of $1.07 billion raised. As we celebrate the unprecedented success of this goal, I find myself in a familiarly serendipitous position because it seems unimaginable to find adequate words to express the sincere gratitude that resonates throughout our university.

The generosity of alumni and friends charted the ambitious course throughout Infinite Impact and in the final months of the endeavor, the Bulldog family rallied again with a renewed spirit of giving—not simply for the sake of the campaign, but for the sake of our students who were facing new, unexpected challenges in the midst of a global pandemic. Despite the unfavorable circumstances and difficulties faced, MSU was able to rapidly adapt and overcome. Maintaining a commitment to continued academic success and the well-being of all students in a time of social distancing is no small feat, but this accomplishment was greatly aided by an outpouring of private gifts.

I am proud to be a part of a university community whose unwavering spirit of camaraderie and support shines just as bright in the difficult times as in the good times. The force of that spirit enabled MSU to not only reach the $1 billion Infinite Impact goal but exceed it. Moreover, the significance of this strong finish is further underscored by the immediate, positive difference it made in a time of need. And I can’t think of anything that more perfectly characterizes the purpose behind this entire campaign journey or the faithfulness of the Bulldog family.

Things may not always turn out the way we plan, but more often than not, it’s for the better. On behalf of the MSU Foundation and the entire university, thank you for the infinite impact you have created and for helping to inspire future generations to pursue the infinite, often unimaginable, possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we have far exceeded all expectations and, in the words of the legendary Jack Cristil, “You can wrap this one in Maroon and White.”