Published by Communications and Public Affairs (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56982 or 53338
Campus Bulletin
December 11, 2003
U of G receives ‘Campaign of the Year’ award, two others from United Way
U of G received the “Campaign of the Year” award from the United Way Community Services of Guelph and Wellington today. U of G raised more than $307,000 – the largest contribution from a single organization.
U of G also received the Leadership Giving Award and the Department of Microbiology was recognized with a Spirit Award.
“This campaign is a real model for all of us to follow,” Eugene Kraemer, United Way’s campaign chair, said of U of G during an achievement luncheon attended by more than 200 volunteers and guests.
U of G, which exceeded its fund-raising goal by more than $22,000, was recognized for, among other things, its campaign leaders, student involvement, and high number of volunteers. “I am very proud to be an employee of the University of Guelph and of our efforts to help the community,” said Toni Pellizzari, executive secretary to the dean of the College of Biological Sciences, who served as U of G’s campaign co-chair with Anthony Clarke, assistant vice-president (academic).
“I want to say thank you to everyone for their support: our students, faculty, staff and retirees,” Pellizzari said. She added that many members of the U of G community also volunteer in United Way-supported agencies.
U of G set a goal of $285,000, which, for the first time, was reached prior to the closing of the campaign Dec. 1. “I thought that we’d meet the goal, but I never imagined that we’d get this far, and the final number is still climbing,” Pellizzari said. The campaign will continue to accept donations through mid-January.
The Leadership Giving Award recognizes the agency with the highest number of leadership donors – people who individually pledge $1,000 or more. U of G had 62 leadership donors who raised $78,928.
The Department of Microbiology was recognized for receiving U of G’s President’s Award, which honoured the department for its high participation rate and for exceeding its fund-raising goal.
President Alastair Summerlee, who attended the luncheon, said the awards are a reflection of the values of the university community.
In total, the United Way Community Services of Guelph and Wellington raised a record-setting $2.2 million this year. More than 46 local organizations in Guelph and Wellington County receive financial support from the United Way, including youth services at Wyndam House, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Guelph and Hospice Wellington.
