SU to launch annual United Way campaign Sept. 17

With the theme “Live United,” Syracuse University is preparing to launch its 2010 United Way campaign, which will begin Sept. 17 and run through Dec. 10.

Volunteering to lead SU’s 2010 campaign efforts are Patricia Stith, assistant provost for equity and inclusion in Academic Affairs and associate dean of the Graduate School, and Chief Tony Callisto, director of the Department of Public Safety. Stith and Callisto will serve as SU’s campaign chair and vice chair, respectively.

In preparation for the campaign, Stith and Callisto are recruiting a cross-campus leadership team throughout September, which will coordinate campus campaign events and communicate the benefits of supporting the United Way. From October through December, departments across campus will sponsor United Way events, including silent auctions, barbecues, a chili cook-off, basket extravaganzas, an art auction and craft fairs.

In September, a pledge card with a message from Chancellor Cantor will be sent to all faculty and staff members, followed by two e-pledge e-mails. At the bottom of each e-mail, donors will be invited to click-through and make a paperless, electronic pledge.

“The campaign is conducted across campus with the ultimate goal of making our community stronger,” says Stith. “I will be encouraging employees this fall to step up and, when possible, give their time and resources to make this campaign a success. By doing so, it will enable the United Way of Central New York to reach out to the increasing numbers of individuals and families who need help during these difficult economic times.”

Through participation in the annual Central New York United Way Campaign, SU is able to contribute to the efforts that benefit more than 100 local programs and services through 38 agencies. SU’s 2009 campaign contributed more than $200,000.

To become involved in SU’s “Live United” campaign, contact Margie Johnson at 443-4224 or mmjohnso@syr.edu.