Georgia Southern University's annual “A Day for Southern,” scheduled for today, is always an important part of the institution's fundraising efforts. But in this year of state-mandated budget cuts and furloughs, the Statesboro/Bulloch County community's support of the university may be more vital than ever.
“There is no question this has been an economically challenging time for the university and our community,” said Bruce Grube, president of Georgia Southern. “Our budget has been cut significantly this year, and we have had to make some very difficult financial decisions. Despite this, Georgia Southern remains committed to providing our students with outstanding educational opportunities.”
Today marks the 36th time volunteers have canvassed Statesboro and Bulloch County for donations to university scholarships and programs not funded by state dollars. Last year, more than $1.4 million was raised during A Day for Southern.
“When someone makes a gift during A Day for Southern, they are investing in the future of our students, Georgia Southern and the Bulloch County community,” said Billy Griffis, vice president of University Advancement. “We have students who depend on scholarship money to help them afford their education. And, the giving opportunities are not limited to scholarships. The many programs also funded through these donations enrich not only our students but the many members of our community who take advantage of them, as well.”
A Day for Southern community chair Steve Rushing said he hopes people will think about the university's impact on the area when they are asked to give.
“Georgia Southern pumps more than $700 million a year into the region's economy,” he said. “Last year its students volunteered more than 7,000 hours to help make life better for people in Statesboro and Bulloch County. The university has educated and employed the people in our area for more than a century, and I can't think of a better investment than to support the endeavors of Georgia Southern.”
Faculty and staff members are also asked to donate during “A Day for Southern,” and many campus departments have 100 percent employee participation.
Community volunteers, along with members of the university's leadership, will visit businesses and contacts throughout the day. Individuals wishing to contribute to A Day for Southern who are not contacted by a volunteer may stop by the Nessmith-Lane Building before 5 p.m. today.
“There is no question this has been an economically challenging time for the university and our community,” said Bruce Grube, president of Georgia Southern. “Our budget has been cut significantly this year, and we have had to make some very difficult financial decisions. Despite this, Georgia Southern remains committed to providing our students with outstanding educational opportunities.”
Today marks the 36th time volunteers have canvassed Statesboro and Bulloch County for donations to university scholarships and programs not funded by state dollars. Last year, more than $1.4 million was raised during A Day for Southern.
“When someone makes a gift during A Day for Southern, they are investing in the future of our students, Georgia Southern and the Bulloch County community,” said Billy Griffis, vice president of University Advancement. “We have students who depend on scholarship money to help them afford their education. And, the giving opportunities are not limited to scholarships. The many programs also funded through these donations enrich not only our students but the many members of our community who take advantage of them, as well.”
A Day for Southern community chair Steve Rushing said he hopes people will think about the university's impact on the area when they are asked to give.
“Georgia Southern pumps more than $700 million a year into the region's economy,” he said. “Last year its students volunteered more than 7,000 hours to help make life better for people in Statesboro and Bulloch County. The university has educated and employed the people in our area for more than a century, and I can't think of a better investment than to support the endeavors of Georgia Southern.”
Faculty and staff members are also asked to donate during “A Day for Southern,” and many campus departments have 100 percent employee participation.
Community volunteers, along with members of the university's leadership, will visit businesses and contacts throughout the day. Individuals wishing to contribute to A Day for Southern who are not contacted by a volunteer may stop by the Nessmith-Lane Building before 5 p.m. today.