Overall participation among employees and retirees increased seven percent in the 2007-2008 All-University Fund Drive. This year, 551 individuals made gifts to Oakland University, the Black United Fund and the United Way. The AUFD campaign also achieved 92% of the $240,300 goal, raising $220,468.
“Once again our employees and retirees have impressed me with their dedication to Oakland University through their support of the AUFD,” said Oakland President Gary Russi. “Together, we are making a difference in the lives of our students by providing vital scholarships and program funding.”
The AUFD raised $206,196 for Oakland University, $4,036 for the Black United Fund and $10,236 for United Way.
These efforts help advance “Innovation & Opportunity -- The Campaign for Oakland University” and contribute to the university’s goal of raising $110 million by the year 2010.
Greg Jordan, director, campus recreation, contributes to the AUFD each year. He designates his contribution to campus recreation gift accounts, which will support student scholarships. “Anytime you can participate in giving back to a worthwhile organization there’s a sense of satisfaction that your dollars are making a difference,” he said. “I’m pleased that I can give back to the institution that has provided me with so much.”
The year’s co-chairs for the 2007 – 2008 AUFD were William Keane, associate professor and chair, Educational Leadership, Pat Nicosia, retired director of Budget and Financial Planning and Laura Schartman, director, Institutional Research. In addition, approximately 60 faculty and staff volunteers throughout campus assisted with this year’s fund drive.
“I would like to thank all of the employees who participated in the AUFD,” said Susan Davies Goepp, vice president, University Relations and executive director, OU Foundation. “Your support and generosity is appreciated by the students who benefit from the funds we raise for Oakland University, and by the members of the community who are assisted by United Way and the Black United Fund.”
All faculty and staff who contributed to the AUFD are invited to join Dr. Russi at an appreciation reception Jan. 30, 2008, from 3:30 – 5 p.m. in the Oakland Center Gold Rooms. Invitations will be mailed this week.