Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences has successfully completed its Purple & Proud Campaign, raising an astounding $57.1 million, creating lasting, positive change for the university and community. This historic fundraising effort has significantly bolstered the university’s mission to advance medical and health sciences education, expand student resources, support faculty initiatives and construct cutting-edge facilities.
“Surpassing our goal with such a remarkable amount reflects the dedication and generosity of our donors,” says Angela L. Walker Franklin, Ph.D., president and CEO. “This achievement empowers us to continue our tradition of excellence and innovation in health sciences education.”
Campaign Highlights
The Purple & Proud Campaign was launched in December 2018 with an initial goal to raise $25 million. Following overwhelming support and generosity, and the decision to build a new, state-of-the-art campus in West Des Moines, DMU announced the extension and doubling of the campaign goal in December 2020. With the campaign’s success, DMU has made significant strides in several priority areas paving the way for lasting impact for generations to come:
Student Support
$28 million dedicated to establishing 43 new scholarships, expanding cultural competency programs, enhancing mental health services, fostering a supportive and dynamic learning environment.
Faculty Support
$6 million allocated to endowed faculty positions, awards and groundbreaking research initiatives, ensuring the retention of top-tier educators committed to shaping the future of medicine.
Facilities Development
$23 million invested in the construction of a state-of-the-art campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, setting new standards in health care education and emphasizing community well-being.
Glanton Fund
Continued support for scholarships aimed at students with significant financial need, especially those whose qualities align with DMU’s mission and values, fostering a campus environment that values cultural differences.
DMU’s Purple & Proud Campaign underscores the university’s commitment to advancing its mission and vision, solidifying its place as a leader in medical and health sciences education. Located in West Des Moines, part of Iowa’s capital metro, DMU offers 10 graduate-level professional degree programs in anatomy, biomedical sciences, health care administration, occupational therapy, osteopathic medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, podiatric medicine and surgery and public health. DMU introduced the new, state-of-the-art campus at 8025 Grand Ave. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration over the weekend of September 13 and 14, 2024. Alumni, community members and prospective students joined together for this momentous occasion, marking the beginning of a new chapter in DMU’s history.
