DePaul University has announced the launch of Mission: Forward, a fundraising campaign aiming to raise $650 million. The initiative is described as the largest in the university’s history and is intended to support students, faculty, and research while reinforcing DePaul’s Catholic and Vincentian mission.

DePaul President Robert L. Manuel stated, “Higher education stands at a pivotal moment — one that calls for bold action, a transformative vision, and a shared commitment from our community to advance DePaul’s mission. As a Catholic, Vincentian university, DePaul is uniquely positioned to chart this course of change. Through Mission: Forward, we are not just responding to challenges — we are shaping the future of access and opportunity. This campaign invests in the experiences, resources, and people who will transform our communities and our world.”

The university plans to use funds from the campaign to expand scholarships for students, recruit and retain faculty, invest in interdisciplinary initiatives addressing global challenges, and strengthen research facilities and community partnerships.

Mission: Forward will also support five educational pillars: developing ethical leaders, promoting economic mobility, advancing sustainability, encouraging responsible technology use, and improving public health outcomes.

Katie Fraumann, senior vice president for advancement and external relations at DePaul, said, “This campaign is about people — the faculty, staff, students and alumni who bring DePaul’s mission to life every day. When we invest in them, we’re investing in DePaul’s future and the values that set us apart." She also thanked Board of Trustees Chair Michael Scudder (MBA ’93) along with campaign co-chairs Sasha Gerritson (MUS ’99) and Jennifer Steans for their leadership.

Founded in 1898, DePaul University serves over 20,500 students in more than 300 programs. Additional information about the university can be found at its official website (https://www.depaul.edu). Details about the fundraising campaign are available at missionforward.depaul.edu.