The sun rises over the Hamar Patio on the Carthage campus.
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VIDEO: Light that Travels: The Campaign for Carthage

$100 million campaign seeks to deliver a radiant future for Carthage students

In Slavic folklore, the Firebird burns with flames so bright that it lights up its surroundings — and a single feather from the bird will stay alight with the same magic.

While the Firebird team name is new to Carthage, the College’s long and storied legacy has always held this promise: That every Carthaginian will carry the fire, bringing knowledge to their communities, sharing their talents and skills for the benefit of those around them, and illuminating in their own way their corner of the world.

In that spirit, Carthage has embarked on a $100 million comprehensive fundraising campaign, laying out an ambitious plan to secure the resources, mentors, and programs students need to shine in the years to come.

Your gift will ensure that Carthage will continue to brighten the lives of future Carthaginians, and the lives of all they touch. Support our students with your gift today — so that they too may become Light that Travels.

Light that Travels Campaign Progress Bar: This total includes $43.6 million in gifts and pledges,...

 

MAKE YOUR GIFT TODAY

“Carthage graduates are the leaders and practical heroes of our time: the ones others seek out for solutions, depend on for guidance, and count on to follow through. The time has come to spread our light further. Your philanthropic support will immediately accelerate Carthage’s journey.”

— Carthage College President John R. Swallow

Read a message from President Swallow


Campaign Goals & Priorities

A 2023 Carthage College graduate beams as she leaves the Commencement stage after receiving her d...

CAMPAIGN PRIORITY NO. 1

SCHOLARSHIPS & OTHER FINANCIAL AID

GOAL: $40 MILLION

Let your light … transform the lives of future Firebirds through scholarships, other financial aid, and funded internship opportunities.

Read more about scholarships
Members of the Carthage College Microgravity Team conduct research aboard NASA's zero g aircraft.

CAMPAIGN PRIORITY NO. 2

PROGRAM INNOVATION

GOAL: $20 MILLION

Let your light … spur the creation of innovative new programs that will solidify Carthage’s standing as a top choice for career-minded students and growth-minded employers in our region and around the world.

Read more about innovation
A student conducts summer research on zebrafish with Carthage College Professor Andrea Henle.

CAMPAIGN PRIORITY NO. 3

SUSTAINED EXCELLENCE

GOAL: $40 MILLION

Let your light … ensure the enduring promise of a Carthage education, to provide a transformative liberal arts education that uncovers and ignites our students’ true potential as they prepare for work and service in the world.

Read more about excellence

“My scholarships not only gave me the opportunity to attend Carthage, but to excel at Carthage. They allowed me to focus more of my time on academics and extracurriculars, instead of working to cover my tuition. I am so grateful to our generous Carthage donors.”

— Jillian Arbeiter ’23
Jillian graduated in May 2023 with a triple major in management, marketing, and finance, and a minor in Spanish. Ten months before she graduated, she had already lined up a full-time job as a human resources business partner coordinator for Kohls.


Concert-goers at the annual Carthage Christmas Festival participate in the Service of Light in Si...

Ways to Give

The commitment and generosity of many Carthage alumni, friends, and supporters have helped create a remarkable institution. The results are evident in the increased quality of our students, faculty, and facilities; the impact Carthage has on our region; and our rising regional and national reputation. With your help, we will continue on this trajectory.

SEE WAYS YOU CAN INVEST IN CARTHAGE

MAKE YOUR GIFT TODAY