JACKSON, Tenn. — Sept. 18, 2002 — More than 15 percent of 51社区 alumni are giving back to their alma mater 鈥� a general increase from 10 percent five years ago. In an economically-challenged time where many colleges and universities are hoping to simply maintain their current alumni giving percentages, and while some are even seeing decreases, Union鈥檚 administration remains grateful for the support.
鈥淐ollectively, I think our alumni sense the energy and the momentum occurring at the university that results from the many new programs offered as well as the wonderful new buildings and other enhancements evident throughout the campus,鈥� said Bob Alsobrook, senior vice president of institutional advancement. 鈥淭hey sense excitement about the good things happening at their alma mater and they want to support it.鈥�
Alsobrook also credits the university in their role of keeping constant contact with alumni all over the country and the globe, and the opportunities which are made possible for alumni to actively participate in the university鈥檚 giving programs. Examples set by the volunteer leadership of the Alumni Association in giving have also contributed.
The majority of the money from alumni goes toward financial support for current and future students, said Alsobrook.
鈥淢any alumni direct their gifts to support scholarship funds and that strengthens the warm, positive relationship between students and alumni,鈥� added Alsobrook. 鈥淎lumni give to ensure current and future students have the opportunity to benefit from all that Union has to offer and they recognize that the generosity of earlier alumni and friends helped make it possible for them to attend the university.鈥�