The Western New Mexico University Foundation is holding a special fundraising drive leading up to the university’s 125th anniversary. The 125 Hours of Giving event takes place Monday, Feb. 5, through Friday, Feb. 9, 2018, as Western New Mexico University celebrates Founder’s Day on the latter date.
The Foundation’s goal is to raise $16,000 that week, which means donors need to contribute about $125 per hour over the 125 hours.
“One hundred and twenty-five dollars goes a long way at Western New Mexico University. That amount makes the difference between an undergraduate being able to buy his textbook or dropping the class and between an online master’s student paying for a semester’s worth of Wi-Fi or putting her degree on hold again,” Western New Mexico University Foundation Director Jodi Edens-Crocker said.
Since 85 percent of Western New Mexico University students draw on financial aid, contributions to the Foundation enable the university to continue providing low-cost education opportunities despite declines in its major revenue sources and increases in the cost of educating students in New Mexico.
The Western New Mexico University Foundation has made more than 110 awards this academic year so far. “We want to grow the number of students we reach and increase the amounts we are able to award,” Edens-Crocker said.
“Our goal is a fraction of what is necessary to support Western New Mexico University in empowering students with knowledge and skills that employers identify as necessary for the present and future,” Edens-Crocker said.
Supporters can send their gifts by texting GiveW to 575-538-6310. It is also possible to give online at foundation.wnmu.edu/givew.