Brighter Horizons
Connecticut College defies boundaries with a $317.5 million record-breaking campaign.
When Defy Boundaries began in 2017 as the most ambitious campaign in Connecticut College’s history, the hope was to raise $300 million in seven years, a sum $100 million greater than the College’s previous campaign.
Somehow, though, the idea of shattering expectations inspired alumni, parents, trustees and friends to do even more. Defy Boundaries not only reached but also exceeded its audacious goal one year ahead of schedule, raising a total of $317.5 million in new contributions in just six years—including $70 million in the last 90 days of fiscal year 2023—to help current and future generations of students achieve their dreams.
“Our Conn community has resoundingly affirmed the cause of a College that has been defying boundaries for more than 100 years,” said former Vice President for Advancement Kim Verstandig P’23. “We are profoundly grateful for the many donors whose generosity and commitment made this historic achievement possible and for all it means to the learning and growth of our students today and in the future.”
The campaign was so true to its name, in fact, that five out of its six years defied the odds and produced the most successful individual fundraising years in Conn history. More than 14,000 donors of every level stepped forward, allowing Defy Boundaries to achieve success across all priorities: teaching and learning, equity and inclusion, student life and athletics, career preparation, sustainability and financial strength.