By Associated Press
Murray, KY\\ – Murray State University has surpassed its original fundraising goal of $60 million with more than a year to go and is raising the target to $70 million. About half the funds will go to student scholarships, The Paducah Sun reported. The comprehensive campaign supports initiatives including advancement of academic excellence, providing scholarships, support of athletics, purchasing new research and laboratory equipment and campus improvements. The university set a record in the past year with more than $10.4 million raised. University President Randy J. Dunn said in a statement that the Hold Thy Banner High campaign has exceeded expectations and he is optimistic the drive could reach $70 million by October 2012.