September might be one of the busiest months on campus, but October is when the real fun begins as the university’s United Way campaign kicks off.
2017 saw new approaches to fundraising as well as two new cross-campus events that we hope become annual traditions.
The Buzz
The Department of Psychology took a little off the top this year with their United Way fundraiser entitled 'The Buzz: Who Will Be the Best Baldie?" Psychology staff member Prath Balasingam, graduate student Mona Zhu, and faculty member Ori Friedman raised over $1000 and had their heads shaved by buzzers Michelle Fowler and Amanda Weldon.
Jessica Rossi, Michelle Manios and Tammy Neal from the Department of Psychology reflected on the first-time event and provide some advice for others on campus.
“We felt it was important to do something big because we’re a large department at the University of Waterloo and we feel that it is so important we give back to our community through the United Way.”
“The sky is the limit when coming up with event ideas! If you come up with a few out of the box ideas, chances are there will be a few enthusiastic people willing to shave their heads.”
“Don’t be afraid to try something different! It’s ok to take a risk, it’s scary, but it’s worth it, and so satisfying when you accomplish your goal. Your enthusiasm can bring a lot of people on board.”
The staff from the Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs office dressed up in red for the occasion (bonus points for the red backdrop!)
A Winning Combination
Our Waterloo Warriors hosted a fundraiser game that also helped raise awareness to the United Way Campaign. On October 27, 2017, $1 was donated to the United Way for every ticket sold.
Our women’s volleyball team spiked their way to victory with a score of 3-0 against Windsor, while the United Way capitalized on their talents with both an inspirational speech by James Skidmore between sets, and an extra $248 raised for the Campaign.
The Department of Computer Science dug out their sneakers and t-shirts to raise some cash.
Meanwhile, the Dana Porter Library got a makeover for October.
Souper Wednesday
Homemade soup and rolls were served on October 18, 2017 in support of this year’s campaign. The turnout was souper!
This year’s campus celebrity chefs included: President and Vice-Chancellor Feridun Hamdullahpur, Karen Jack (University Secretary), Cathy Newell Kelly (Registrar), Jackie Serviss (President, UWSA), Bryan Tolson (President, FAUW), Stephen Watt (Dean of Mathematics), and Roly Webster (Director, Athletics). Over 145 campus community members made a donation and enjoyed a bowl of soup in support of the United Way.
You might have been seeing red if you stopped by Human Resources October 1!
