Campus Communications
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Contributing to Excellence
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October 6, 2011
Dear Campus Community,
Nearly 150 years after three benefactors stepped forward with funds to build what would eventually become the University of Massachusetts Amherst, philanthropy continues to play an important role on our campus. Indeed, the donors of those first gifts received were stirred by the possibilities of a great public university.
Today our supporters continue to be stirred by the possibilities here, confirming it each time they give. Last year alone we accepted $31 million in private donations from over 34,000 donors, including 2,000 students, faculty and staff. The benefit of this generosity is measured in many ways: scholarships for more talented students, dynamic academic programs, endowments for superior educators, and the ongoing renewal of our learning environment – to name just a few.
Advancing our mission of superior teaching, research and service can only be fully achieved with funding sources beyond what dwindling state funds allow and tuition and fee revenue yields. Our current state-funded budget simply cannot cover all we aim to do.
In light of these challenges, we know that the minimum is not enough and the median will not get us to where we aspire: among the top public research institutions in the world. Truly, the strength of our public/private partnership will mean the difference as UMass rises.
That partnership is strongest when we all play a part.
When you came to UMass Amherst, your participation became integral to our mission. No matter your role here – faculty, student, receptionist, dining hall or administrative staff – your skills and expertise bring unmistakable value to this campus. Your efforts, and your support, empower us to reach out and tell people about the incredible work you are doing here.
Every individual at this university gains from private sponsorship, whether directly or indirectly. To that end, we all have the opportunity to positively influence the continued growth and reputation of UMass Amherst through our own philanthropy:
—Many students have been invited to participate in the Piggy BankIt program where spare change collected will be contributed to student scholarships (visit www.umass.edu/piggybankit to learn more or get your piggy bank).
—-Faculty & Staff will be invited to participate in the 2011-2012 Faculty & Staff Campaign, with funds up to $500,000 matched by the university. (www.umass.edu/umhome/facstaffcampaign)
The Class of 2012 will have an opportunity to leave their legacy at UMass Amherst via this year's Senior Campaign.
Private support – and a campus-wide effort – will provide the margin of excellence to which we aspire.
I am grateful for your contributions here and enthusiastically encourage your continued participation in aiding your university's ascent.
Sincerely,
Robert C. Holub
Chancellor
