Oklahoma State University’s historic comprehensive fundraising campaign, The Code Calls, has reached a major milestone. The university announced it surpassed $1 billion committed toward its $2 billion goal, signaling powerful momentum and broad-based support from the Cowboy family.

Reaching the halfway point reflects alumni, friends and partners’ deep commitment to the university and their belief in OSU’s ability to transform lives through education, research and service, said OSU President Jim Hess.

“This achievement reflects the trust our supporters have placed in Oklahoma State University and in the future we are building together,” Dr. Hess said. “Because of their generosity, OSU is better positioned to lead with purpose, serve with impact and prepare the next generation of leaders. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to our students and our mission, and we are energized to carry this momentum forward.”

Built on the Cowboy Code, The Code Calls campaign celebrates tradition while charting an ambitious vision for the future of the largest university system in Oklahoma. The Code Calls places student success at its core and will create life-changing scholarship opportunities for students, drive groundbreaking research and elevate OSU academics and athletics to new heights.

Through donor-funded, renewable scholarships and targeted student experience initiatives, the campaign will expand access to higher education, ensuring talented students have access to the resources they need to earn a degree with career-ready skills. A signature example of this vision is the Horizon Scholars program, launched to create a premier leadership and scholarship experience that connects students with mentors, resources and a strong community from day one.

Following a record-setting year for fundraising during Dr. Hess’ first year as president, OSU Foundation President Blaire Atkinson said crossing the $1 billion mark is an extraordinary moment for OSU and for everyone who has answered the call to invest in its future.

“This milestone is a direct result of our donors’ leadership, generosity and belief in the power of the Cowboy family,” she said. “Their support is creating life-changing opportunities for students and advancing innovation and discovery across our university and beyond.”

Gifts to the campaign are already making a meaningful impact — expanding scholarships for students, strengthening academic and research excellence, and extending OSU’s land‑grant mission to communities across Oklahoma and around the world.

“While surpassing $1 billion is a remarkable achievement, this milestone represents both a celebration and a challenge,” Executive Campaign Board Chair Joe Eastin said. “The Code Calls has always been about securing Oklahoma State’s future, and there is still important work ahead. We are incredibly grateful to those who have joined us in this campaign, and we invite every member of the Cowboy family to be part of this historic effort as we continue transforming lives through scholarships, academic excellence and innovation. As the Cowboy Code promises, we finish what we start.”

Atkinson said the campaign reflects the generosity and commitment of donors whose support continues to create opportunities across OSU.

“Thanks to more than 88,000 donors, this campaign is moving forward with strength and purpose,” Atkinson said. “Together, we will keep going, building on what we’ve accomplished and continuing to transform lives.”

To learn more and to support The Code Calls fundraising campaign, visit osugiving.com.

The Code Calls Executive Campaign Board

• Joe Eastin | Dallas
• Jessica and Bryan Begley | Southlake, Texas 
• Gina and Tucker Bridwell | Abilene, Texas 
• Angie and Brian Callahan | Dallas
• Julie Connelly | Dallas
• Kayleen and Larry Ferguson | Hot Springs, Arkansas 
• Joe Hall | Elk City, Oklahoma 
• Shelly and Gant Lambertz | Oklahoma City
• Gail and Rick Muncrief | Edmond, Oklahoma 
• Jamie and Darton Zink | Tulsa, Oklahoma 
• Barry Sanders | Campaign Champion | Farmington Hills, Michigan 
• Billie and Ross McKnight | Honorary  | Throckmorton, Texas