Gerdin Gift Powers Kirkwood’s Future | Cedar Rapids News

Kirkwood Community College just shattered its fundraising record, raising over $22 million—40% above its $15 million goal—in its biggest campaign ever, thanks to 1,620 donors focused on scholarships, healthcare education, and workforce readiness across seven counties. A major $2 million gift from the Russell and Ann Gerdin Charitable Foundation will kickstart lab upgrades for healthcare programs, directly addressing the region’s growing need for skilled professionals. This donation also paves the way for Phase Two of a larger $88 million bond initiative voters will decide on November 3rd, which includes facility upgrades like simulation labs and classrooms. In gratitude, Kirkwood will rename the Health Sciences wing of Linn Hall in their honor. Other key contributors include the John and Cindy Bloomhall Family Foundation, Susan Elliott-Bryan, Hugh Shaw, the Tippie Family, and an anonymous donor—and a $1 million scholarship match challenge was fully funded, opening doors for future leaders. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f10570e039f46e3d