Victory Day 2026

Columbia College has been transforming lives for 172 years. Our bold past combined with our courage for innovation, commitment to social justice, confidence through service, and competence in leadership make up who we are as a college today. Since 1854 we have remained student-centered, focusing on academic excellence and providing service to our communities.

Columbia College stands today because of the extraordinary generosity of our alumnae community, more than 60 years ago. In February 1964, as many of you know, the main campus building was destroyed by fire. In response, alumnae across the country worked tirelessly to raise funds to rebuild their beloved alma mater.

On June 5, 1965, the Alumnae Association presented President R. Wright Spears with a check for $372,170, equivalent to nearly $4 million today. That remarkable act of generosity helped save this institution and protect its legacy for generations to come.

To honor that legacy and continue supporting life-changing opportunities through higher education, I invite you to join us by making a gift on or before Victory Day on June 5. Give because you love Columbia College. Give because you believe in education. Give because someone once gave for you.

This year, we are encouraging support for the Columbia College Loyalty Fund. The Loyalty Fund impacts every part of the institution, from scholarships and student support to campus operations and the programs that shape the Columbia College experience.

A gift to the Loyalty Fund is a gift to all of it.