University of Nevada , Las Vegas President Carol C. Harter today announced that UNLV's first-ever comprehensive fundraising campaign has soared past the $300 million mark, bringing in more than $37 million during the first quarter of its public phase. The campaign, titled Invent the Future, was launched to the public in September 2005, with $263 million raised during its "quiet" or nucleus gifts phase.

"We are so pleased at the way the community has already embraced this campaign," said Harter. "Great communities and great universities are intertwined in countless ways. Private support will go a long way to help UNLV fulfill its potential - taking us to a new level of academic excellence, while strengthening our work in economic development and innovative research to serve our community and our region."

As of Dec. 31, 2005, the Invent the Future campaign has raised $118,247,530 in gift revenue received to date, and $181,779,103 in longer-term pledges and commitments, for a total of $300,026,633.

Fundraising priorities for the $500 million Invent the Future campaign include endowments to assist with recruitment and retention of top students and faculty; funds to provide enhanced learning opportunities through scholarships, fellowships and other programs; and funds toward innovative learning environments, through new and renovated facilities and special equipment. The campaign, which is to date the largest such effort in state history, will culminate in 2008. Additional information about the campaign, including a secure on-line giving form, may be found on the web at <a href="http://campaign.unlv.edu">http://campaign.unlv.edu</a>

<b>EDITOR'S NOTE:</b> Detailed breakouts of campaign totals can be requested from Public Affairs (702) 895-3102.