United Way drive increased by 3 percent, ends today

Administration, faculty, staff and retirees have until Thursday to decide if and how much they will donate to United Way in the annual campus-wide fund-raising campaign.

Despite the current economic downturn, the committee decided to continue the drive and raise the goal by 3 percent to $110,000, which is up $3,000 from last year said Don Mills, vice chancellor of student affairs.

Although the economic state plays a factor in potential donations, people still need to remember to give, said Nancy Styles, executive assistant to the vice chancellor of marketing and communication.

“Because the economy is not in the best shape, more people are needing to take advantage of United Way’s services, so the organization needs more money,” Styles said.

Mills, the United Way committee chairman, said because faculty and staff received a 3 percent compensation last year, the group felt the higher increase was appropriate.

All donations will go to the general United Way fund and equally divided among its departments unless otherwise specified.

— Joi Harris