Riley Brandt, University Relations
Jan. 19, 2017
UCalgary closes 2016 United Way campaign with records set again
With the splash and excitement that accompanies achieving a challenging goal, the University of Calgary’s 2016 United Way campaign officially wrapped up on Jan. 17, 2017 at a special event at the Taylor Family Digital Library Gallery Hall. The university’s campaign co-chairs, Jackie Sieppert, dean of the Faculty of Social Work, and Rae Ann Aldridge, associate vice-president (risk), welcomed campaign volunteers and cabinet members and announced a new record-breaking total of $634,952, exceeding the 2016 campaign goal of $500,000 by $134,952.
“This year’s United Way theme, We are ALL Calgary, was a spirit fully embodied by each of you and our campus community throughout this year’s campaign,” said Sieppert. “From donating funds, to logging volunteer hours, to organizing multiple fundraising events — your hard work and dedication to improving your community is outstanding. Heartfelt thanks go to our United Way cabinet, our unit co-ordinators, and every member of our UCalgary community who helped us not only reach, but surpass, our goals this year.”
Rae Ann Aldridge congratulated everyone and presented awards to the faculties and units that achieved the highest results based on participation and funds raised:
- The Challenge Cup was awarded to the Faculty of Graduate Studies for reaching a 43-per-cent participation rate and raising $2,359
- Cumming School of Medicine won the award for the highest number of Leadership Donors with 34 donors contributing between $1,200 and $10,000+;
- Faculty of Grad Studies was also awarded the Mover and Shaker Award for showing the greatest growth in donations over the previous year
- Cumming School of Medicine was also presented with a second award, the Very Special Events Award, introduced in 2016 to recognize the faculty/unit raising the most money through special events. Cumming raised more than $16,000 through their Wine Survivor, Black Market, 50/50 draws and barbecue events.
Riley Brandt, University Relations
Diane Kenyon, vice-president (university relations) and United Way Campaign executive sponsor, said, “Congratulations and thanks to each and every one of you who contributed to this year’s record-breaking United Way campaign. You have set an admirable example by showing your commitment to making a difference in our community. You have done yourselves — and the entire university community — proud. Your deep dedication to those in need demonstrates that together, we truly are integrated with our communities. Thank you for being our university’s — and our city’s — best supporters.”
Kenyon also thanked Bill Rosehart, dean of the Schulich School of Engineering, for his outstanding work as the campaign’s Leadership Giving Lead. Rosehart and his team championed a record 153 donations at the $1,200 to $10,000+ level, bringing in $446,333.
Riley Brandt, University Relations
Overall, a total 668 donors contributed to the campaign. From the Werklund Fun Run to Bubble Soccer, from pumpkin carving to Give ‘n’ Thanks gold star sales, UCalgary’s commitment to making our 2016 United Way campaign a success has been exceptional, and the drive of our community to reach our goals exceeds expectations year after year. UCalgary will be recognized at United Way’s 18th annual Spirits of Gold Awards on Feb. 13, with award nominations in three categories.
Visit our UCalgary United Way campaign website for more information.