The Office of Annual Giving has set aside a Philanthropy Awareness Day to thank University of Houston alumni for their philanthropic efforts on March 29.
PhAD is an annual event recognizing the financial support received from private donors when tuition and state funding run out.
“We’ve dedicated a day to raising awareness among students about the important role of individual gifts, like those we receive from UH alumni. We are celebrating by recognizing those things that are the result of contributions, which is why we have dressed the M.D. Anderson Library building with two big, red bows,” said Lizeth Castro, Young Alumni Coordinator for The Office of Annual Giving. “It’s about thanking all those donors who so generously give each year, even if it’s just a couple of dollars a month. We are a better university because these contributors make an effort to support UH and its students whether it’s generous or just loyal. All gifts make a difference for UH.”
The event takes place at the University Center between 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Students will have the opportunity to win prizes and eat free food.
“Students can get free lunch and win prizes. More importantly, these donors make a difference in every student’s UH experience. I know I feel appreciated by even the smallest thank you and I’m sure all our donors will appreciate a token of thanks from students,” Castro said. “They give out of kindness and loyalty and we want to make sure they know their gifts do make a difference. Why not take a few minutes to say thanks?”
Castro said that it is important for students to attend the event and spread philanthropy awareness.
“With the budget cuts that everyone has heard about and the way higher education is faring in the general economy, right now it is even more important than ever before.” Castro said.
“Many people think, ‘UH is a state school. I pay taxes, I pay tuition. They don’t need my gift.’ But UH is really a ‘state-assisted’ school to be honest. As recently as 1991, 48 percent of the UH budget came through state funding.
“This year, state funds are around only 26 percent. We do know that tuition is a lot of money for most students and families; we are not asking students to give anything right now. We simply want them to understand that the gifts of alumni and friends help us to keep growing, offer more and better resources to students that tuition and state monies just can’t cover.”
Joel Peter John, kinesiology senior, said he is looking forward to attending the event.
“I want to show my gratitude to the alumni because without them, we wouldn’t be able to cover tuition costs,” John said. “A lot of people don’t know about how much the alumni contributes, so this day is important to spread awareness.”
All donations received by The Office of Annual Giving go back to the university to help provide students with faculty, facilities and programs.
when i graduate the school isn't getting a dime from me.
they've stolen enough as it is