Concordia Journal Home > Archives > May 8, 2008 issue >

Faculty, staff donate time, money to support students 

We asked a few of our colleagues why they became actively involved in Concordia’s philanthropic efforts and here’s what they had to say:

Randy Swedburg, Professor, Applied Human Sciences:
“I am not a fundraiser — I am a professor who sees the good that comes from donating to scholarships for students. In 1987, I was involved with starting the A. Ross Seaman Scholarship Fund, which to date has awarded more than 140 scholarships. What motivates me is the joy of seeing my contribution have an impact. I believe in what we are doing. As the faculty representative on the University Advancement Committee, I came to realize that when we show support for the university, we create a positive image for those outside the university.”

Nancy Stewart, Faculty Personnel Coordinator, JMSB:
“Why do I volunteer on the Community Campaign and the Shuffle Committee at Concordia? Because somebody asked me. I’ve been working at Concordia for 29 years. About 18 years ago, I started taking stock of my life here. I looked at all of the good things Concordia has afforded me and decided that I should try and give a little something back. It turned out to be so easy. I’m a member on a couple of great committees with like-minded people. I found out that when you work with a team of great people, you can accomplish the goals you set. I also discovered that I have skills and capabilities that I didn’t know I possessed. It has been a win-win situation. I’ve developed new areas of expertise, and by making my small monetary donation each year, I’ve helped to provide for some needy students.”

Caroline Clayton, Budget Assistant, ENCS:
“What made me get involved? My initiatives are inspired by others. If the JMSB students can step into the shoes of a homeless person for five days and nights, I ask myself if we ENCS faculty and staff can fundraise for their cause. I support the university because, as the Community Campaign says, we are a community. Since I work and study at Concordia University, volunteering is simply another means of getting involved and being active in my community.”

Murray Sang, Director, Continuing Education:
“The reason that I volunteer at Concordia is because I value the institution and the good work that we do. In a way, I am very privileged. I get to come to work in a place that is stimulating, challenging and collegial. The institution has supported me all these years and I think it’s important to give back not through just my work, but also through volunteering and supporting events that fulfill the Concordia mission and help our students.”

You, too, can get involved and make a difference. Whether you choose to make a one-time gift or a payroll deduction, every gift will benefit both current and future Concordia students.

Make your donation today through payroll deductions, cash, cheque or credit card at community.concordia.ca