The largest reported fundraising campaign in the area's history has surpassed its goal.

It was announced on Thursday afternoon, Shawnee State University's capital campaign Poised For Tomorrow has exceeded its goal of raising $12 million. The campaign has raised a record $15,578,993 in cash and planned gifts.

"Today is an excellent day," said SSU President Dr. Rita Rice Morris, after the official announcement was made.

A recent anonymous gift of $4 million - the largest in the university's history - helped the campaign move past its goal. The gift reportedly was deferred, and will be used for scholarships and other outreach programs.

"We tried to raise the bar with this campaign," Morris said. "We are excited about the possibilities this funding creates for the future of higher education in the region."

Poised for Tomorrow got its start in April 2005, with a quiet phase, and was publicly announced in January 2007.

The campaign outlines a number of initiatives funding would be used for. Initiatives that, in the words of Morris, would take the university to the next level of excellence.

In the planning process for the campaign, Morris went to university faculty, students, staff and alumni to help determine campaign initiatives. The result was seven initiatives: Undergraduate research, agenda for technology, specialized studies, faculty development, scholarships, enhanced clinical experience and enhanced quality of life for the region.

"It's not that we are ending the campaign now, but this is where the celebration begins," she said. "Our future truly depends on building on our successes, and these initiatives will help us do that."

Donations still are being accepted for those who wish to contribute to the campaign. Morris said people still are contributing.

Plans are under way to honor the campaign's donors of $1,000 or more by placing their name on a plaque that will hang in the University Center.

The proceeds from this year's SSU President's Gala will be contributed to the campaign. The gala is scheduled for May 30.

For more information about the campaign and ways to contribute, call the SSU Development Office at (740) 351-3284, or visit www.shawnee.edu/campaign.