University celebrates another record-breaking United Way campaign

The University of Calgary officially wrapped up its 2014 United Way campaign on Wednesday, celebrating and thanking all cabinet members and volunteers for their hard work and dedication.

Joanne Perdue, chief sustainability officer and United Way co-chair, was thrilled to announce the fundraising total for 2014 was $433,512, exceeding our campaign goal by more than $18,000. Richard Sigurdson, Faculty of Arts dean and United Way co-chair, was unable to attend the wrap-up event but sent his warm wishes to the campaign and attenders.

“Congratulations to each and every one of you,” said Perdue. “By coming together and choosing to create positive change, the University of Calgary has made a powerful impact in our community and our city. Funds raised through the United Way reach thousands of people every year, and you have made an incredible difference in their lives.”

Leading the charge once again for the Leadership Donor campaign was Jackie Sieppert, dean of the Faculty of Social Work. During the campaign, 142 leadership donors committed to giving an annual donation between $1,200 and $9,999, surpassing last year’s target. This equated to more than $242,000 donated to the overall campaign total.

Campaign fundraising honours were awarded to VP Development for achieving the highest percentage of faculty and staff participation, with 96 per cent donating to the campaign; the Faculty of Environmental Design had the greatest growth in donations from the previous year; and the Cumming School of Medicine took home the coveted Challenge Cup, raising $79,000 in campaign donations — the most raised by any faculty or unit. They also stewarded the highest number of leadership donors in a faculty or unit.

Whether you participated in a 50/50, bounced around in a man-sized bubble, bid in a silent auction, carved a pumpkin, bought a cookie in a bake sale, made sandwiches, hosted a book sale, braved frigid waters, sang a show tune, or simply provided financial support to the campaign — the university thanks you for your time, enthusiasm and contribution to the campaign, ensuring struggling families in our city are given a chance to thrive.

The university’s commitment and dedication to this year’s campaign will be recognized at United Way’s 16th Annual Spirits of Gold Awards on Feb. 11, where we have been nominated in three different categories.

Visit the website for more information about the university’s United Way campaign.