FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas has surpassed its United Way fundraising goal of $148,000, the most ambitious United Way goal in the institution’s history. To date, University of Arkansas faculty, staff and students have raised a total of $150,108.64 for the United Way of Northwest Arkansas.

Judy Schwab, associate vice chancellor for administration, and Carolyn Allen, dean of the university libraries, serve as co-chairs for the 2008-09 campaign.

“I am extremely proud of our faculty, staff and students for the outpouring of support during these tough economic times. Throughout the institution and across the campus, people gave generously and wholeheartedly to those whom the United Way serves,” Chancellor G. David Gearhart said.

More than 140 faculty and staff volunteers from all colleges and departments of the university contributed to the success of this year’s campaign, with approximately 1,000 faculty and staff making financial commitments to the effort.

In addition, university students pitched in to raise more than $1,600 from different events.

“Once again student participation, specifically the Associated Student Government, the Division of Student Affairs, and Registered Student Organization leaders, raised not only money but also awareness of how students can help United Way agencies provide essential services to people in need across northwest Arkansas,” Allen said.

 “Another highlight of the campaign has been facilities management’s level of participation, with giving of over $13,100 this year,” said Marcia Overby, who represents the university on the United Way of Northwest Arkansas board of directors. “Their generosity was remarkable and set new records in terms of dollars raised by a single campus division.”

Among the 35 agencies that benefit annually from the United Way of Northwest Arkansas are the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Northwest Arkansas, Community Clinic at St. Francis House, the Council on Aging, Head Start, Life Styles Inc., the Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter and the Peace at Home Family Shelter.