The University of Ottawa community has once again shown its generosity and empathy for those who need the services and programs of the United Way. The 2007 uOttawa United Way campaign ended on a positive note raising $413,617 at time of printing — a slight increase from last year’s campaign finish and $1,383 shy of reaching this year’s $415,000 goal.
The 2007 campaign also surpassed the $50,000 goal set for the uOttawa Student Aid Fund that was launched as part of the 2006 campaign. The University community raised $53,000 — a 50 per cent increase over the 2006 results. In contributing to this special fund, the University community sets an example of social consciousness to and for its student population, while expressing confidence in its potential for success.
At the campaign closing celebration on November 26, President Gilles Patry proudly reported that 106 leaders and 97 friends of the United Way contributed to the success of the campaign. Their donation of $500 or more represents more than half of the total funds collected. Fifty-five per cent of the University community participated in the campaign.
Campaign co-chairs Denis Cossette and Jeff Keshen acknowledged the extraordinary contribution of all donors and campaign volunteers, who worked tirelessly to reach the goal.
The volunteer spirit of two individuals was also recognized at the closing celebration with the presentation of the United Way’s Hubert Reiter Award, which recognizes annually the staff member “whose pioneering spirit, social commitment and persistent efforts have contributed to the advancement of a social cause” by the University of Ottawa.
The 2007 Hubert Reiter Award was given to Jeaninne Charrette (left) and Mary Ann Murray. Charrette, a retired secretary-receptionist within the Office of the President, coordinated the uOttawa United Way campaign for nine years, in which she oversaw the nuts and bolts of the campaign, including the emergencies and the unexpected problems. Murray, a doctoral student in philosophy and nursing at uOttawa, has been an outstanding volunteer with the Shepherds of Good Hope for many years.
