FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — To help conclude another successful campaign for the United Way of Washington County, the University of Arkansas will hold a campuswide victory celebration at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18, at the University House, located at the corner of Garland Avenue and Maple Street. The media is invited to attend.

The university raised a record $136,339.79, surpassing its goal of $125,000 by more than $10,000. For its continued support of the United Way, the university also received the 2004-05 “Community Hero” award. 

“Once again, campus giving for the United Way was phenomenal,” said Juana Young, associate dean of libraries. “While all departments are to be congratulated for their wonderful generosity, I think the UA students are to be especially commended for their hard work.

“This year, two student-sponsored events, a haunted house at the Fayetteville Town Center and 'Casino Night,’ raised more than $5,500 combined. I want thank the student organizations within University Housing and the Residents’ Interhall Congress for their hard work for such a great cause.”

More than 150 campus departments contributed to the success of the 2004-05 campaign.  The university will hold an awards ceremony announcing its bronze, silver and gold medal award winners for departmental giving during the celebration event.

“One department that made a big improvement and deserves a big 'thank you’ was Facilities Management,” said Earlene Baker, assistant to the vice chancellor for finance and administration. “Approximately 80 employees combined to contribute more than $6,500, an increase of more that $2,000 from than last year.”

Scheduled speakers for the celebration include Chancellor John A. White; Jeff Jeffus, chairman of the Washington County United Way Board; and Dennis Smiley, chair of the 2004-05 United Way Campaign.