Faculty/Staff Campaign begins

Faculty and staff members will have the opportunity to make a contribution to a new Annual Fund, which raises money for GVSU endowments or other university funds of their choice.

Money raised is used to provide students with scholarship money toward their education expenses. For some students, scholarships determine whether or not they can attend Grand Valley. James Lightfoot, a student in the Public Administration program, was able to attend Grand Valley due in part to the faculty and staff support he received through the Minority Business Education Center Scholarship.

Funds not used for scholarships provide resources for other pressing university needs, such as developing the Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences in Grand Rapids. Opportunities for giving include all academic areas, as well as special interests, such as music, art, athletics and funds allocated for underrepresented groups, including minority students and women.

'In addition to aiding current students, faculty and staff support in the form of a monetary gift sends a message to our community and prospective students that GVSU is a family,' said Steven Nicolet, manager of annual giving. 'It assures students, parents, alumni and fellow staff that we care.'

Contribution materials will be personally delivered to faculty and staff members this week. Campaign co-chairs Mary Seeger, Dean of Academic Resources and Special Programs, and Paul Plotkowski, director of the Padnos School of Engineering, are eager to exceed last year's total of $258,723. In considering a gift, it is important to know the following:

Contributions to GVSU qualify as a State of Michigan tax credit and a federal tax deduction.

Giving is easy, with many arrangements available. Donations are made possible through cash payment, check, or payroll deduction.

You may choose which areas of the university receive the funds, or you may allow the donation to be allocated where it is most needed (Areas of Greatest Need)

Gifts to named endowment funds are matched through GVSU's accumulated endowment earnings.

The 2003 Campaign will begin on Wednesday, November 6, with a 'Kick-Off Breakfast' at the Kirkhof Center and will continue through the academic school year. For more information, please contact Nicolet at x6606.