West Virginia University’s United Way campaign is the first of its kind.

It is the first campaign to be named the “Best of the Best” by the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties three years in a row.

“We are so proud of our campaign,” said Brett White, campaign coordinator and special events coordinator for the WVU Center for Civic Engagement. “It is truly a testament to the goodwill of our employees and students. We ‘LIVE UNITED’ every day at WVU and this campaign continues to be proof of that. We truly believe in the good work of the United Way and look forward to many successful campaigns in the future.”

WVU’s 28th campaign raised $320,000, $41,558 of which was raised by the students. The campaign, led by WVU First Lady Beth Clements, had 1,300 contributors and 187 employee team captains.

“This recognition is truly a testament to the goodwill and dedication of the WVU family to the community,” Clements said. “I couldn’t be more proud of the work that went into making this campaign a success, and look forward to being on the front lines of WVU’s future campaign efforts.”

The award is given to the company that truly lives the United Way’s message, which is to “give, advocate, volunteer and live united.” Presented as a traveling plaque, the award has been given annually since 1980. Prior to 2008, WVU received it two other times, White confirmed.

White was also named community “Advocate of the Year.” The award is the only individual award given, and is presented to one community member each year that “clearly demonstrates extraordinary leadership in philanthropic and human services.”

Former recipients of the “Best of the Best” award include WVU Hospitals, Mylan Pharmaceuticals, BB&T and Huntington National Bank.

For more information on the many ways WVU reaches out to the community, visit http://cce.wvu.edu/ .

-WVU-

cd/03/04/11

CONTACT: Brett White, Center for Civic Engagement
304-293-8761, ext. 33481, Brett.White@mail.wvu.edu