North Georgia College & State University’s first-ever capital campaign exceeded its goal by more than $4 million, with $8 million raised in the past six months.

“Living Our Values: The Campaign for North Georgia” launched in 2007 with an initial goal of $40 million. The first $10 million came from a private gift from Mike and Lynn Cottrell to support the university’s School of Business.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled with the support that North Georgia has received throughout this campaign, especially during these tough economic times that have made student need so much greater,” said Bonita Jacobs, president. “This is a tremendous achievement in the history of our university, and its success demonstrates the commitment of the NGCSU Foundation and the leadership of Mike Cottrell and Paul Stringer, who served as co-chairmen of the campaign. True leaders, they invested their hearts, minds, energy and personal resources in this campaign to ensure its success.”

Since 2007, nearly $7 million has been contributed to student scholarships, including the establishment of 40 new ones.

About 20 percent of the campaign money will go to scholarship funds, and the rest will go to program support.

School officials say less than 50 percent of the university’s operating budget comes from state funds. The difference is made up in tuition, fees and private contributions.

“The support and generosity of the alumni, friends and faculty and staff of North Georgia will make it possible to maintain programs like the Corps of Cadets, which has produced generations of military officers, and civilian leadership programs that have prepared professional leaders who make a difference in the communities they serve,” said Stringer.

The school received donations from alumni, corporate sponsors and community members. More than 7,500 participants donated, ranging in values from $25 to $10 million.

“I am so proud to have been a part of this extraordinary accomplishment, but all the credit goes to the supporters who have recognized the tradition of academic excellence and leadership development that North Georgia represents,” Cottrell said.

The campaign ended June 30.

Since mid-May, when the campaign opened to the public, officials have raised about $6 million.

Lee Johnson covers education issues for The Times. Share your thoughts, news tips and questions with him:
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