September 25, 2002

Lilly Challenge could provide ISU
with up to $9 million

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. — Colleges and universities that experience broad support from their alumni, staff, students and other constituent groups are frequently among the strongest institutions in the country. These gifts always have a tremendous impact on the institution and on the lives of its students. [Frequently Asked Questions]

Because of this, the Lilly Endowment Inc. has approved two challenge grants for Indiana State University (and other public and private institutions throughout Indiana) as a means of strengthening philanthropy for higher education. As a matching gift initiative (dollar-for-dollar), these challenges will double the value of each gift

If we, as supporters of ISU, can meet these challenges, the result could mean as much as $9 million for programs, scholarships and other initiatives at Indiana State.

“Through these challenge grants, the Lilly Endowment is igniting support for our programs while reminding those closest to Indiana State that their support is critical if we’re to continue to educate future leaders and strengthen our community of learners," said ISU President Lloyd W. Benjamin.

The first grant -- the Lilly Board Challenge -- is designed to strengthen giving to Indiana State University from members of its current Board of Trustees and from its Foundation Board. The endowment will match contributions from board members in support of any ISU programs (with the exception of athletics) up to a maximum of $1 million (total worth to ISU is $2 million). The largest sum that Lilly will match as part of this challenge is a single individual gift of $250,000, and matching funds will be allocated to the same area(s) as designated by the donor. This initiative will continue through Dec. 31, 2002.

The second grant -- the Lilly Challenge – a special initiative to strengthen philanthropy for Indiana higher education institutions from all constituent groups – is worth as much as $3.5 million in matching funds (or a total of $7 million to Indiana State). It too matches contributions, dollar for dollar, from alumni, friends, faculty, staff, corporations and foundations, to the area(s) specified by the donor. This initiative, which began in June, will continue through December 2003.

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Contact:
The Office of University Development, (812) 237-3669.

Writer:
Maria Greninger, associate director of Public Affairs
(812) 237-4357 or m-greninger@indstate.edu

ISU Public Affairs:
(812) 237-3773 or http://isunews.indstate.edu