Dean College Campaign Succeeds Over Goal

FRANKLIN, MA— On Friday, October 22, Dean College celebrated the end of a successful capital campaign which exceeded its goal by raising $5 million dollars through enthusiastic support from donors.  The celebration honored the campaign leaders, contributors, and the Dean community for their support and hard work during the three-year “Campaign for Dean College.” 

“I am pleased to say that we officially closed the campaign one-million dollars over the goal!” Dr. Frank Campanella told the gathering of trustees, staff, faculty and donors.  He is chairman of the Dean College board of trustees and the former executive vice president of Boston College.

The capital campaign benefited educational and campus upgrades for the college.  Projects included a new “smart classroom,” enhanced faculty and student support, scholarships, technological equipment, energy management, and other ambitious goals.

The college’s 88-room student residence between the Campus Center and Franklin Library received a permanent name at a dedication ceremony.  Lucey Hall was named after Robert F. Lucey, a longtime friend of the college and its board co-vice-chairman. 

“Bob has been a catalyst for Dean to achieve new heights,” President Paula Rooney said of Lucey’s time, talent and resources.  “Many of his contributions have been made anonymously.  He has been an exemplary friend to Dean College and to me.”

Earlier, a ribbon-cutting ceremony opened the Alden Center for Teaching and Learning, a multi-tiered lecture hall.  Redesigned through a challenge grant from the Alden Trust and matching donations by alumni and trustee donors, the “smart classroom” has state-of-the-art integrated audiovisual systems to deliver technology-infused curriculum for diverse learning styles.

Rooney stated that the campaign leadership’s time and energy exceeded all expectations.  “The Campaign was led by an extraordinary group of individuals comprised of alumni, trustees, parents and friends.  They dared to dream big.  They guided us, inspired us and encouraged us every step of the way.” 

Mike Jones, campaign chair and trustee, is thrilled with the campaign’s success. “It makes a statement…When you have a successful campaign, it means people believe in the vision of the school, are willing to support it, and want to be part of the successful future of the institution.”

Other campaign leadership included vice-chairs Terry Robbins and Jan Kokes, class of 1964, honorary chairs Alan Bernon, Rachel Bloomfield of Dean Academy 1938 and Bill Green, class of 1974, CEO of Accenture, Alumni and Legacy Families Committee chair Claire Pate, class of 1975, Corporate and Foundation chair Ted Tye, vice-chair Karnig Durgarian, and Parents and Friends co-chairs Michael and Kathleen Colbert, the parents of 2001 graduate Andrew Colbert.