In a last major push to reach a historic 50 percent alumni giving rate, the University of the Virgin Islands is reaching out to all its alumni to make a gift by Sept. 30. UVI President Dr. David Hall challenged alumni to raise the alumni giving rate to 50 percent, in honor of UVI’s 50th anniversary, through what was named the 50 for 50 Campaign. If that goal is reached, UVI will be the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to hold that distinction.
Because of good alumni response to initiatives held throughout the year, UVI is now at a 40 percent alumni giving rate and has less than a week left to meet the 50 percent goal. A total of 601 additional alumni must make a donation for the goal to be met. Annual Giving and Alumni Affairs Director Linda I. Smith said she is optimistic.
“It’s really exciting to have come this far,” Smith said. “These numbers are really impressive for an HBCU,” she added. “We are here and we are not stopping.” Smith encouraged alumni who have already made pledges to fulfill their pledges today. For those who may not have made a pledge or who are just learning about the campaign, Smith also encouraged them to take action now. She stressed that no gift is too small.
“We’re asking for everyone to go online or send a check, and call a friend to spread the word,” Smith said.
UVI alumni have until midnight on Sunday to make a gift. Gifts may be made online via UVI’s secured site at www.uvi.edu. Checks may be sent via mail, postmarked by Sept. 30, to University of the Virgin Islands, Institutional Advancement Office, No. 2 John Brewers Bay, St. Thomas V.I. 00802 or University of the Virgin Islands, Alumni Affairs Office, RR1 10,000, Kingshill V.I. 00850. Donations may also be made by calling 692-4023. Cash donations will also be accepted at the Cashier’s Offices on each campus.
For more information, call the Office of Institutional Advancement at 693-1047 or 692-4023.
