KU Alumni Association’s virtual fundraiser brings in $100K
LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas Alumni Association hosted its first-ever virtual fundraising event, Jayhawks Flock Together, on Nov. 19 in support of student and alumni programs and KU’s Campus Cupboard, a food pantry for students, faculty, staff and affiliates. The event, featuring KU Chancellor Douglas A. Girod, Alumni Association President Heath Peterson and Fox 4 News co-anchor John Holt, was presented in partnership with Dimensional Innovations, Helix Architecture + Design and McCownGordon Construction and supported by video production sponsor KJO Media.
Nearly 750 Jayhawks worldwide participated in the event, which raised $80,000 from sponsorships and the silent auction to support the association’s Jayhawk Career Network and the Student Alumni Network, and $20,000 from the Fund-the-Future portion of the live program to benefit the Campus Cupboard, which the chancellor selected to highlight the seriousness of food insecurity and its effect on Jayhawks.
According to KU, approximately one-third of its students experience food insecurity during their time on campus, and those needs have only intensified this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as many student-held jobs on campus or in the Lawrence community have been eliminated or reduced.
“We deeply appreciate the generosity of KU alumni and friends who contributed financially to the KU Campus Cupboard,” said Jennifer Wamelink, associate vice provost for KU Student Affairs and Food for Jayhawks committee member. “Your gifts help the pantry provide students with the specific food items, hygiene products and school supplies that meet their unique needs and are particularly meaningful as we prepare for what looks to be another difficult semester for many.”
“We are especially proud to support the KU Campus Cupboard to help students who are struggling with food insecurity and hunger,” Peterson said. “In addition, funds raised from Jayhawks Flock Together are critical to the association’s efforts to expand industry and career connections between all Jayhawks and significantly enhance the student experience. We are grateful for all event sponsors and Jayhawks who came together during a very challenging time to positively impact thousands of students and alumni.”
About the KU Alumni Association
Through the support of members and donors, the KU Alumni Association advocates for the University of Kansas, communicates with Jayhawks in all media, recruits students and volunteers, serves the KU community and unites Jayhawks. For more information, visit kualumni.org.