The University of Oregon is launching its Oregon150 Initiative, a fundraising effort to raise half a billion dollars by the end of 2026 for student success and capital projects.
The initiative will prioritize access and scholarships, academics and research, student support services, and career preparation and networking, as well as renovations on the new UO Portland residential campus and Building 2 of the Knight Campus.
The initiative was announced by UO President Karl Scholz at his investiture on May 30.
“The Oregon150 fundraising initiative will expand access to education and support students to ensure they not only succeed, but thrive during their academic journey,” Scholz said. “This initiative represents our unwavering commitment to preparing the next generation of big thinkers, problem-solvers, creative innovators, and engaged citizens. Our students will contribute to the world and lead good lives.”
Coming in advance of the university’s 150th anniversary in 2026, Oregon150 will build a bridge to the university’s next 150 years. The initiative continues the momentum of the UO’s previous $3.2 billion campaign, builds on the success of the signature PathwayOregon scholarship program, and is inspired by a visionary gift from donors Connie and Steve Ballmer in 2022 to establish the Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health and fund scholarships.
The Ballmer Institute at UO Portland will house the Prevention Science Institute and help address the youth mental health crisis in Oregon and around the world. The new UO Portland campus represents a leap forward for the UO in Portland, offering students more spaces and resources for learning activities and, for the first time, a residential experience.
To learn more about the UO Portland Campus, visit the Oregon150/Portland website.
“Being able to offer our Portland students an immersive, residential experience, along with the creation of a new profession by the Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health, is significant for the UO,” said Jane Gordon, vice president for Portland. “There is palpable energy, interest and enthusiasm from alumni and donors about increased connection to the Portland business and professional community and all the opportunity that brings.”
In an email to campus partners sent ahead of the launch, new Vice President for Advancement Joe Buck shared his gratitude and a call to action for the UO community.
“We cannot achieve these ambitious goals without the support of our campus partners,” he said. “I want to applaud the efforts of those who helped plan and launch Oregon150. From our Student Success Planning Taskforce to Advancement Communications, prospect development, and our fundraisers — thank you. I am also grateful to our campus partners who have contributed to this effort thus far. Together, we will continue to shape the future of the university and empower the next generation of leaders.”
The Oregon150 Initiative already has raised more than $360 million, including $1.4 million brought in during Ducks Give, the UO’s annual day of giving event on May 16, which centered on student success programs.
“Oregon150 is our bridge to the future,” Buck said. “We’ll be fundraising for areas foundational to our mission and growth as an institution, but we’ll also be deepening our ties with the alumni, donors and friends of the UO whose engagement will be crucial as we chart a course for the next 150 years.”