Quincy University recently launched its 2026-2027 QU Fund Drive with a goal of $1.75 million, building on last year’s campaign that surpassed its $1.6 million goal.
The QU Fund is the university’s annual giving program and a vital source of support for every area of campus life. Gifts to the QU Fund provide scholarships for deserving students, strengthen academic and athletic programs, and sustain the university’s mission-centered operations.
Leading this year’s campaign as co-chairs are alumni and community leaders Philip (Phil) and Lori Hildebrand.
“With this year’s QU Fund appeal underway, I’m encouraged by the commitment of our QU Fund chairs, Phil and Lori Hildebrand, and the continued momentum among our alumni and friends across the country,” said Dan Queathem, vice president for university advancement. “In recent years, we’ve continued to break records and exceed our goals, reflecting the generosity of our supporters and their belief in Quincy University, our students, and our future. We’re grateful for that support and excited about what we can accomplish together this year. Every gift helps create opportunities for our students and strengthens the university we all believe in.”
Phil Hildebrand, a 1996 accounting graduate who earned his MBA from QU in 2006, currently serves as Vice President of Finance and Administration at Quincy Recycle, where he oversees enterprise-wide administrative functions, including accounting, human resources, information systems, legal, safety, and operations support. Throughout his professional journey, Phil held roles at MoorMan’s, Ralston Purina, Nestle Purina PetCare Company and Gardner Denver.
Lori Hildebrand, a 1992 Monmouth College graduate, worked in corporate buying for Ralston Purina before stepping back to raise the couple’s three children: Emma, Sidney and PJ.
Seeking to be closer to family, the Hildebrands returned to the Quincy area in December 2002. Today, the Hildebrands are active members of St. Edward Parish in Mendon and actively participate in local civic life, where Lori has served as a school mentor, substitute teacher and is currently a volunteer at the Teresa Adams House.
“Lori and I are honored to serve as the QU Fund Campaign Chairs because of our deep belief in Quincy University and the value it brings to our students and to our community,” said Phil Hildebrand. “The experiences students share at QU are the ties that bind them to one another, to faculty, staff, and coaches, and to their faith and moral compass for a lifetime.”
Lori Hildebrand emphasized the broader impact the university has across Adams County.
“Through Phil’s experiences and those of our family and friends, I have seen firsthand how the faculty and staff not only provide an excellent education, but also strive to help students mature, grow in their faith, and become productive and compassionate adults,” she said.
Donor contributions directly fuel campus development and student experiences through recent upgrades to residence halls, classrooms, athletic staff offices, and the expansion of engineering programs, aviation faculty, and new doctoral programs in occupational and physical therapy. To enhance spiritual life, the university also created a student chapel in Friars Hall, renovated Tau House (formerly the Campus Ministry House), and expanded its campus ministry team.
Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University is a small Catholic university emphasizing the sciences, liberal arts and the professions. Quincy University offers undergraduate, graduate and adult education programs integrating practical experience and
Franciscan values. Faculty and advisors work with students to design customized success plans to help them graduate on time, find their passion and prepare them for life. QU is a member of NCAA Division II for intercollegiate athletics. For more information, please visit www.quincy.edu or contact the Office of Community Relations at (217) 228-5275 or [email protected]. Quincy University. Success by Design.