Faculty and Staff Fired up About Annual Giving

VALDOSTA -- University Advancement representatives want faculty and staff members to get "fired up" about giving back to Valdosta State University this year.

The 2010 Faculty & Staff Campaign, now under way gives enthusiastic supporters an annual method of giving to their favorite departments and organizations or the university as a whole.

Unrestricted gifts allow for the greatest flexibility in meeting university needs. Special gifts provide for the purchase of necessary equipment or fund other endeavors -- both academic and administrative -- which "blaze" a trail for university excellence.

John Crawford, vice president for University Advancement, encourages the VSU community to become more fired up about investing in VSU than ever before. He said this year's campaign is a convenient, yet influential way for faculty and staff to join in support of long-term success.

"Gifts to the annual fund support student scholarships, research projects, equipment purchases, technology enhancements and many other things, which contribute to the overall VSU experience," Crawford said. "Private giving is the bridge that allows students and faculty/staff members to travel together on the road to academic excellence."

Juneau Construction and Ambling University Development Group offer faculty and staff a reason to get even more fired up about giving. By pledging to create a faculty/staff matching gift fund, the two companies empower VSU community members to establish endowments in honor of family, friends, mentors or other loved ones.

The foundation's policy on establishing endowments requires a minimum gift of $25,000 payable over a three-year period; however, the threshold will be lowered to $12,000. When matched by the Juneau/Ambling gift, employees will be able to establish an endowment for only $6,000, payable over a three-year period.

Whether establishing an endowment or contributing to the unrestricted fund, private gifts are vital to the university's success -- especially in light of the current economic climate and diminishing state allocations.

Campaign Co-Chair Phyllis Holland said participation at any level is key to the university's success.

"It’s a tough year for faculty and staff, who will take cuts in the form of furloughs, but if you believe in VSU's mission you really have to put your money where your mouth is," said the business management professor and department head, who plans to support to the Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business Administration. "Giving provides amazing opportunities for students through new programs, student organizations and scholarships, and gives faculty access to resources that wouldn't be acquired without Foundation funding."

The director of Event Services and campaign co-chair, Sage Archer said the growth and positive changes she has seen in her 18 years working for VSU make her proud to hold both undergraduate and graduate degrees from the university. It is for this and many reasons she chose to lead this year's campaign.

"For Valdosta State to see continued success, we must all play a part -- by both fulfilling our job responsibilities and offering financial support," said Archer, who considers her college years at VSU some of her best. "Whether you are a sports fan giving to athletics or an employee giving back to your department -- just give. VSU needs private support to continue providing our students with amazing college experiences."

Contribute to the annual fund by completing the campaign form found at http://www.valdosta.edu/give/documents/2010_Faculty_Staff_Campaign_Web_FORM.pdf and return it to VSU Foundation Accounting, Alumni House, via campus mail.

Gifts can be made by payroll deduction during the 2010 calendar year, checks made payable to VSU Foundation, Inc. or credit card. View the list of funds at http://www.valdosta.edu/give/documents/Fund-Project_List.pdf .

Gifts of securities, real property and insurance are also accepted. Call the VSU Foundation at (299) 333-5939 for more information.