The school's annual phonathon has broken the $1 million level in record time this year. Projected figures also show that if the phonathon keeps raising funds at the rate it is now, it will raise more money than any previous year.
This year the campaign has passed the $1 million point almost a month sooner than usual.
"The phonathon usually reaches $1 million by the week after finals," said Lola Mauer, the assistant director of annual giving.
The phonathon is a program in which students make calls to alumni and friends of the school for monetary donations. The automated phonathon started in the late 80s and has been working year-round since then.
The 2002-2003 phonathon began in July and since then has had more than 11,000 pledges.
"So far we've raised $1,050,000, and we still have until June 30," Mauer said.
While in previous years the ending total was near $1,055,000, Mauer said this year they will surpass those figures if they keep raising funds at the current rate.
Each call's length averages eight to nine minutes. Students tell the alumni about university news and projects as well as inform them about enrollment and tuition. Students also allow alumni to check up on their favorite building on campus.
"It is important that the alumni feel connected to the university," Mauer said, "even if they haven't been back on campus for several years."
The gifts have ranged from $10 to $7,000, averaging around $91.
With these gifts the school helps to provide assistance to students with scholarships and financial aid. The money is also used for technological purchases and other resources to help students.
"We have a group of students who are tremendously dedicated and hard working," Mauer said. "I also believe we have alumni and friends who are very supportive of the university."
Mauer said perhaps the success of the campaign may be due to things like better-trained supervisors, additional training sessions, raise in the students' hourly pay, increasing employee retention and providing the students with a fun working environment.
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