FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - As of December 18, the University of Arkansas has raised $126,929.65 for the Washington County United Way during its campus-wide campaign for 2003, surpassing the university’s goal of $119,000 by more than $7,000.

This is the largest amount ever raised by the university for the United Way. Additional contributions can be sent to Earlene Baker, assistant vice chancellor for Finance and Administration, at 406 ADMN on the University of Arkansas campus. Contributions will be accepted through Feb. 1.

Bill Warnock, assistant dean of the College of Engineering, and Juana Young, associate dean of Mullins Library, serve as co-chairs for the United Way campaign.

"What a wonderful gift for so many people this holiday season," Chancellor John A. White said. "I am so proud of the support, generosity and hard work of the students, faculty and staff during this campaign. This money raised shows the university community’s commitment to the people of Washington County, and I look forward to seeing that spirit of giving continue to flourish in the future."

More than 100 faculty and staff volunteers have contributed to the success of this year’s United Way campaign. In addition, UA students stepped in to lend a big helping hand. Working with local organizations, members from a variety of student organizations helped raise more than $5,000 through Casino Night, The Haunted House and the Brat Wagon.

"Student involvement improved dramatically during this year’s campaign," Warnock said. "It was encouraging to see these students pull together for such a wonderful goal with the United Way. Their contribution really helped put us over the top."

Baker said: "In addition to the student support, one of the highlights of the campaign was the Physical Plant’s contribution, which was $2,000 more than last year’s. Since they are the largest department on campus, we rely on their support and giving during this campaign."

Since its first campaign in 1984, the university has raised almost $1.7 million for the Washington County United Way and ranks as the largest contributor in the city of Fayetteville. The university is also the second largest United Way contributor in Washington County behind Tyson Foods, Inc.

Among the 35 agencies that benefit annually from the United Way are Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Arkansas, the Boy Scouts of America, Headstart, the Council on Aging and the Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter.

A victory celebration will be held to thank University of Arkansas participants in the United Way campaign in the Spring of 2004.