Although many employees have supported the Faculty/Staff Campaign since its inception in 1990, the potential exists for an even greater level of participation among faculty and staff, which is a traditional barometer among corporations of how worthy of support an institution is. For example, when faculty and staff give to the University through the Emory Challenge Fund, The Coca-Cola Foundation, through the Emory/Coca-Cola Challenge, matches all new or increased unrestricted annual gifts up to a total match of $2 million.
Co-chairing this year's Faculty/Staff Campaign are John Stone, associate dean and professor in the School of Medicine, and Bertha Hunt, administrative assistant in the psychology department.
"The University provides tremendous support to educate us and enhance the growth of each individual employed here," said Hunt, a former president of the Employee Council. "I feel blessed to be able to work at an institution that will provide me with the opportunities I need to reach my goals. At Emory, we are unified and indeed in many ways resemble a family. We must realize that we are a vital component of the growth at this great University; therefore, we must not take our value lightly."
"When I reflect on my 30 years at Emory," said Stone, "I realize how privileged I have been. To watch, during these years, a great University become even greater; to appreciate the variety of human endeavors of which I have been part; to represent an institution that has not only national but increasingly international roles to play; to teach and learn in this place--these have been my joys. The Challenge Fund is one superb way for me to say thank you. We have come a long way, and together we can go even further."
Linda McNay, executive director of the Challenge Fund, pointed out that the University spends a substantial amount of money on programs that invest in its employees, such as the Training and Career Development Center in Human Resources, the Courtesy Scholarship and Tuition Reimbursement programs, and the EmoryCare and PruCare health insurance plans.
"We have all chosen this place--this distinguished University-- to make our careers," said McNay. "To establish Emory as a collective in its fullest sense, each of us should consider a gift to the University to finance programs and facilities that tuition money alone cannot fully support."
Employees may contribute to the Faculty/Staff Campaign with a single payment of cash, a check payable to Emory University or by VISA or MasterCard. Payment through payroll deduction is also available.
For further information on the Faculty/Staff Campaign, call 727-4245.
--Dan Treadaway