The initial goal of the Empower Campaign, launched in May 2013, was to raise $1 billion — $500 million in philanthropic support and $500 million through industry and government partnerships — by 2017. Due to the campaign’s success, the university increased the goal by 25% to $1.25 billion. When the campaign ended in October 2017, Empower reported an unprecedented $1.4 billion raised for students, faculty, and research.

The university launched the Empower Campaign with one of the largest events in the institution’s history. The Marino Center, a sporting facility, was transformed into a dazzling sensory experience of light, sound, texture, and taste. Six unique pavilions, each representing a different field of study, featured interactive exhibits showcasing cutting-edge research and inspiring calls to support the university’s momentum.