A billion dollars is more than a number.
It represents students whose lives have been changed by scholarships. It reflects groundbreaking discoveries made possible through research. It creates opportunities for future generations of Cowboys to learn, lead and serve. And it stands as a powerful testament to what can happen when a university community unites behind a shared purpose.
Oklahoma State University’s historic, comprehensive fundraising campaign, The Code Calls, has surpassed $1 billion committed, reaching the halfway point of its $2 billion goal. This milestone marks a defining moment in the largest fundraising effort in university history and signals remarkable momentum driven by alumni, friends and partners who believe in OSU’s future and land-grant mission, 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.”
“Together, they are creating opportunities, advancing discovery and ensuring that the next generation of Cowboys is prepared to make a lasting impact on Oklahoma, the nation and the world.”
Built on the Cowboy Code, The Code Calls 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 career services, 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 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,” said Executive Campaign Board Chair Joe Eastin. “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.”
OSU looks ahead with confidence. The momentum is strong. The vision is clear. And the Cowboy family continues to answer the call — proof that thousands of people believe in what OSU can accomplish.
“Together, they are creating opportunities, advancing discovery and ensuring that the next generation of Cowboys is prepared to make a lasting impact on Oklahoma, the nation and the world,” Atkinson said.
With half the goal achieved and unprecedented support behind it, The Code Calls is poised to continue transforming lives — one student, one discovery and one gift at a time.
The Code Calls
Photo by: Benton Rudd
Story by: Samantha Hardy | STATE Magazine