Boston College Launches Largest Capital Campaign In School History

CHESTNUT HILL, MA — Boston College on Thursday launched what school officials are calling the largest capital fundraising campaign in the school's history.

Soaring Higher: The Campaign for Boston College is a $3 billion initiative designed to raise money for key priorities in academics, financial aid and student life, according to officials.

A kickoff gala for the campaign was held Thursday on the Middle Campus.

According to the school, the initiative seeks to double the goal of the university's 2008 Light the World campaign, which raised $1.6 billion.

Officials said a total of $1.13 billion already has been raised towards Soaring Higher's ultimate goal.

"Soaring Higher represents the largest fundraising effort in the history of Boston College and invites consideration not only of BC's heritage and mission, but also its future, which is full of such promise," William P. Leahy, the university president, said. "I am confident that the campaign's focus on obtaining additional resources for academics, financial aid and student life will help the university to maintain its upward trajectory."

The university said that one of the main goals of the campaign is to raise $1 billion to boost financial aid for low-income and middle-income families.

Through Soaring Higher, the university also hopes to increase internships, graduate fellowships, and support for international study.

Additionally, the campaign is expected to generate funding for BC's student life priorities in formative education, campus ministry, service immersion and intercollegiate and intramural sports, while providing resources for the construction and renovation of campus facilities, including residence halls and space for student activities and wellness programs.

Plus, Soaring Higher will provide support for Messina College, a residential, two-year program for underserved students that will open at BC in 2024.

"Boston College's rise during the past 40 years to its place among the nation's best universities is one of the greatest success stories in American higher education," said John Fish, BC Board of Trustees chair. "I take pride in BC's consistent momentum and am honored to be a part of a campaign that will help Boston College to achieve its goal of being the world's preeminent Catholic university."