United Way Campaign Breaks University Record

University of New Mexico faculty and staff gave more than $222-thousand to the United Way Campaign of Central New Mexico last year, a record for the school.

Campaign Chairman Howard Smith, Dean of ASM says, "Several things contributed to the success of the campaign. President Louis Caldera set a leadership example with his significant encouragement and personal donation, we were better at getting the campaign organized and Patrick Vigil from Advancement did an extraordinary job of coordinating the effort."

However, Smith says there is room to grow at the University. Only about 9% of the faculty and staff at UNM contributed last year. That number is low compared to our counterparts in the Albuquerque area and among other institutions of higher education.

In New Mexico 100% of donations go directly into the programs of the organizations the United Way funds. Administrative costs for the United Way organization are taken care of by corporate sponsorships. Campaign coordinator Patrick Vigil says "We ask so very much from the community and they have always supported the University. We can show our thanks by supporting the community through the United Way Campaigns."

Contact: Karen Wentworth (505) 277-5627