By President John L. Hoffman and Allyssa "A.J." Joseph
Published 12:00 pm on August 6, 2025
Dear Beavers,
We are delighted that the Bemidji State University Alumni & Foundation has announced the public phase of our “For the North” fundraising campaign.
For the North is a bold and visionary three-year campaign to raise $25 million to advance student success, upgrade campus facilities and boost our enrollment efforts. The campaign builds upon our two-year strategic direction plan and centers three strategic priorities for fundraising initiatives:
1. Student Success ($20 million goal)
Currently, 95% of our students receive some form of financial assistance, and increased scholarship support will directly impact their ability to access, persist in, and complete their education.
2. Facility Upgrades and Faculty Excellence ($3 million goal)
Investments in our physical campus and in our faculty will ensure that BSU continues to deliver top-tier instruction and mentorship in environments that foster innovation, engagement, and pride.
3. Enrollment and Recruitment ($2 million goal)
Strategic support for enrollment marketing and outreach will allow us to better illustrate the power and value of a Bemidji State education — and welcome more students to our community.
This is only the second fundraising campaign in BSU’s 106-year history. Between 2011-16, our “Imagine Tomorrow” campaign raised $36.54 million. We anticipate For the North will reach its $25 million goal in half that time. Since the start of our silent phase on July 1, 2023, we have already secured $19 million toward that goal — a remarkable testament to the passion and belief our supporters have in BSU’s future.
With the launch of the public phase, we are excited to engage the broader community in shaping the future of higher education in our region. This fall, we will invite campus and community members to participate in a variety of events and celebrations including launch activities during Homecoming. We will share more information about these opportunities in the weeks ahead, and we hope you will join us!
For the North is a transformational opportunity, not only for Bemidji State University but for the entire North Woods region. It is about our people, our place, and our shared promise. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of those who believe in what we do, who we serve, and where we are headed as an institution.
Together, “For the North!”
Sincerely,
John L. Hoffman
President, BSU and NTC
Allyssa "A.J." Joseph
Alumni & Foundation Executive Director
