College well on the way to meeting goal in Campaign for UConn
By Nancy Weiss
“It’s going swimmingly,” says Dean Gregory Weidemann, smiling broadly and leaning into his desk. He is describing the progress of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources in the Campaign for UConn. The College has of goal of raising $14 million by 2014 and so far has received commitments toward half that amount.
“Success breeds success. A number of key donors are responding to our calls. We are ahead of our goal. It is a reasonable goal. My plan is to reach it, blow right by it and keep on going,” says Weidemann, who credits Director of Development Amy Chesmer with effectively working with alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the College to build a committed base of support.
“People are pleased with where the College is going and want to invest in it,“ Weidemann adds.
Campaign priorities reflect the direction of the College and its values. Scholarship gifts are always needed and, under Dean Weidemann’s leadership, will be directed toward traditional areas as well as new international efforts. Increased opportunities to study abroad should be open to everyone, so efforts to expand funding for travel will be emphasized.
“I believe students who want to study abroad as well as those who demonstrate financial need should have access to support,” Weidemann says.
Support for faculty positions is also essential to the continuing growth of the College. Named faculty chairs start at $1.5 million and Weidemann would like to see several established during this campaign.
Two recent gifts highlight the College’s momentum in the campaign. Alumnus and budget director under President Lyndon Johnson, Charles J. Zwick, ’50,’51 made a gift of $1 million to establish the Charles J. Zwick Food and Resource Policy Center. And, a former faculty member and lifelong supporter of the 4-H Youth Development Program created a $50,000 annuity to further the work of hands-on learning for youth.
To make a gift, please send contributions to the UConn Foundation Inc., c/o Amy Chesmer, Director of Development; 1376 Storrs Rd., Storrs, CT 06269-4066. Or go to the UConn Foundation’s secure Web site.
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