Ohio University Southern has been a key part of the community for more than half a century, but now the community has the opportunity to step up to help enrich the next 50 years.

The branch campus is entering year two of its capital fundraising campaign, with an aggressive but achievable goal of $3.5 million.

Fittingly, the theme is “The Promise Lives,” which could be taken as the university honoring its promises to continue to serve the community but also that each and every student has the potential for greatness inside them.

The campaign is well on its way with nearly $1 million already raised, but there is much more work to be done.

Lawrence County’s business leaders have to step up to support an institution that helps men and women — young and old — reach their dreams.

From the largest of businesses to the individual who has minimal extra income, everyone can contribute in some way. Even the smallest of donations are significant and appreciated.

The funds will be used to strengthen and grow programs that address educational needs here in the Tri-State as well as to provide scholarships and improve the overall offerings.

Ohio University Southern and its satellite facilities — which include the Proctorville campus, the nature center and the horse park — serve the general public with a variety of offerings almost as much as it serves its students.

This type of strong community bond is what made the past 56 years successful and can do the same for the next 56.