West Virginia University - News and Information Services
WVU's United Way 2007 campaign kicks off Wednesday in Morgantown
First couple Mike and Heather Garrison will serve as co-chairs
When West Virginia University launched its 2007 United Way campaign Wednesday morning (Sept. 26) in Morgantown, two new – but familiar – faces to the campus community were at the helm.
WVU’s new president Mike Garrison and his wife, Heather, are chairing the campaign that kicked off with a breakfast at the Ramada Inn.
“Helping to Make Our Community Stronger – It’s What We Do at WVU!” is the theme of the effort that hopes to raise at least $230,000 for the local United Way office that serves outreach agencies in Monongalia and Preston counties.
That theme of community, the president said, couldn’t be more appropriate.
Last year, WVU’s faculty, staff, students and retirees went to the coffers in a big way, making the University the largest single contributor to the two-county campaign.
It’s a Mountaineer tradition, said Garrison, a WVU graduate who took over as president of his alma mater this past Sept. 1.
“At West Virginia University, we contribute to the lives of others in so many ways,” he said. “Service is part of our identity. The agencies supported by the United Way make our communities better places to live by helping those who live among us who can’t help themselves.”
And that work, he said, is nothing but tireless.
“Their staffs and volunteers work day in and out,” he said, “to address the issues associated with low incomes, illness, illiteracy, domestic violence, homelessness, isolation and other tough issues faced by members of our community.”
This year’s campaign runs through Oct. 26.
For more information on how to volunteer and contribute, contact campaign coordinator Elaine Sholtis, at elaine.sholtis@mail.wvu.edu.