This time last year the University of Missouri–St. Louis was in full giving mode. UMSL’s Be Inspired campaign had faculty and staff donating to the university to support the programs that inspire them.
This year, UMSL Be Inspired, the faculty and staff giving campaign, is set to take place in the spring in order to avoid confusion with the annual UMSL Month of Community Giving in October, which benefits the United Way and Community Health Charities. Be Inspired will begin in February and last for the full month. A victory celebration for those who give to the Be Inspired campaign will conclude the month’s efforts.
“Last year’s campaign produced truly extraordinary results,” said Mark Berlyn, senior director of development at UMSL. “Faculty and staff responded generously, and we anticipate that they will do so again this year.”
Be Inspired’s 2012-2013 campaign was the most successful faculty and staff giving campaign in the history of UMSL. Contributions by university employees doubled the dollar amount contributed the previous year. First-ever gifts were received from several departments, including 10 gifts from UMSL’s custodial services department.
The 2013-2014 year looks to be ready to exceed those amounts again, especially because the campaign’s volunteer committee now includes student help.
“We want to begin encouraging student philanthropy,” said Scott Simmons, director of annual giving at UMSL. “Students will not have to give to the university, but it is an opportunity to learn about giving back.”
To contribute online visit gift.umsl.edu. For more information call Greg Nelson at 314-516-4735, Maggie Myers at 314-516-5852 or Scott Simmons at 314-516-4732.
