To the extent that we raise the level of private giving to the University, we will also significantly improve educational experiences for our students, scholarly opportunities for our faculty, and the effectiveness of our outreach programs. The end result is to increase Penn State's ability to make life better for all Pennsylvanians, and for society in general. Now the campaign is entering its public phase, which will give all Penn State alumni and friends the chance to participate in shaping the future of the University and its impact on society. Such assistance enables Penn State to recruit academically deserving students and offer a college education to those students who might not otherwise be able to afford it. Anticipated increases in annual giving will be used as seed money for new research projects, equipment acquisitions, outreach programs such as public broadcasting and the World Campus, and new and renovated facilities.
Donors have the opportunity to designate their gifts to the areas of their choice.
Edward P. Junker III, chair of the University's Board of Trustees and retired vice chairman of PNC Bank Corp., noted that the Trustees have officially approved the campaign and support its objectives. We also have 100 percent participation in giving from this group. This is the strongest possible testament to the campaign's potential to make Penn State a powerful tool for public good. Campaign gifts to date have already had a major impact on the University. Donors have endowed more than 20 faculty chairs and professorships.