EIU tops $50 million fundraising goal

CHARLESTON — Eastern Illinois University already has topped its goal of raising $50 million by July 2014 through its Expect Greatness fundraising drive.

The Mattoon Journal-Gazette reports that Eastern Illinois announced this week that it has raised about $53 million so far.

Leaders at the Charleston university started the campaign in fall 2010 to raise money for scholarships, faculty pay, research and other areas.

Robert Martin is vice president of university advancement. He said the response from Eastern Illinois graduates was strong.

Martin said donations from faculty and staff also increased during the campaign.

The school plans to continue raising funds but now plans to celebrate its success this fall.