Stay Tru Capital Campaign

STAY TRU TO LEGACY

In the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, Truman created a dynamic educational center that nurtures leadership, spurs discussions about democracy, and inspires civil service.

In recognition of the 75th anniversary of his presidency, the Truman Library and Truman Library Institute developed a momentous plan to draw on Truman’s life and legacy to inform, inspire, educate, and engage a 21st-century audience at an increasingly critical time in our nation’s history.

The $55-million Stay TRU Capital Campaign, increased from the original $20-million goal, includes a new Truman permanent exhibition and other strategic improvements, enhanced education programs, expanded public programs, and endowment support.

There is still time to be part of this once-in-a-generation transformational campaign. Use the navigational links to the right to learn more.

Thank you for Staying TRU!

Our Progress

$1,500,000
Education and Community Programming
$4,500,000
Endowment Support
$5,500,000
Other Support
$43,500,000
Capital Project
$55M
“This library will belong to the people of the United States.
The papers of the presidents are among the most valuable sources of material for history. They ought to be preserved and they ought to be used.”
– HARRY S. TRUMAN

STAY TRU TO HISTORY

Why Truman? Why Now?

The list of Harry S. Truman’s difficult and world-shaping decisions is extremely long. Assuming the presidency in the final months of World War II, he inherited a worldwide catastrophe.

Truman shouldered the burden of leadership in a rudderless world. With courage, integrity, and humility, he vindicated the American conviction that an open society can produce leaders equal to any challenge.

It falls to the Truman Library and Truman Library Institute to expand appreciation of this Midwestern farm boy who never went to college, his remarkable rise and enduring character. Through the biography and achievements of Harry Truman, future generations will come to understand both the possibilities and the responsibilities of American citizenship.

As Lyndon Johnson said of Harry Truman: “In praising him, we reaffirm the greatness of America.”

DAVID VON DREHLE, The Washington Post columnist and Truman Library Institute board member

“The full stature of this man will only be proven by history.”
– GEORGE C. MARSHALL

STAY TRU TO EXPERIENCE

Capital Campaign

There is no better place in the United States to tell the story of America’s 33rd president than the Truman Library. This campaign is making the Library a hub for exploration and experiential learning that achieves Truman’s goals for his “Classroom for Democracy:” create more informed and engaged communities, teach the next generation about our history, and inspire citizens to participate in shaping our future.

BUILDING AND EXHIBIT RENOVATION

Install a new Truman permanent exhibition and upgrades to the visitor experience including improved storytelling, enhanced interactive and technology-based experiences, and a comprehensive educational strategy.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING

Expand educational programming utilizing Truman’s legacy to teach young people about civics, American history, the presidency, and the importance of public service.

COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING

Increase community programming, new programming in targeted regional and national locations, and social and digital media engagement.

ENDOWMENT SUPPORT

Ensure future sustainability for the Institute’s operations and its financial, programmatic, creative, and staffing support of the Library.

“Make no little plans. Make the biggest plan you can think of and spend the rest of your life carrying it out.”
– HARRY S. TRUMAN

STAY TRU TO SUPPORT

75th Anniversary Honorary Committee

Dr. Madeleine Albright

Henry W. Bloch*

The Hon. Roy Blunt

The Hon. Emanuel Cleaver

The Hon. James Clyburn

Clifton Truman Daniel

William H. Dunn, Sr.

Donald Hall

Edward T. Matheny, Jr.

The Hon. Claire McCaskill

David McCullough

The Hon. Janet Napolitano

Marny and John Sherman

Morton I. Sosland*

Timothy W. Triplett

David Von Drehle

The Hon. Eileen Weir

Clyde F. Wendel

The Hon. Robert Zoellick

*Deceased