Credit Guide

Phonathon reaches goal despite cautious giving

Date 11/29/2001 12:00 AM | Topic: News

Starting Oct. 28 and continuing through Nov. 15, hundreds of Luther students volunteered their time by contacting alumni to raise money for the Luther College Annual Fund.

Students went to Olin in the evening, where they sat among other students engaging in conversations with alumni and receiving pledges. A total amount of $652,003.09 was collected this year.

These funds benefit Luther College in a variety of ways. The Luther College Annual Fund aids in scholarships, improves campus buildings, increases faculty and student programs, strengthens co-curricular activities, and helps update technology and equipment.

Phonathon also benefits the volunteer. According to Linda Emery, Associate Director of Annual Giving, Phonathon offers students the opportunity to meet new people, build on communication experience, and learn about the college, and it also looks great on a resume.

Much effort was put forth by this year's chairs to make Phonathon 2001 a success. This year's chairs included: Julie Duhme ('02), Kim Carlson ('02), Gina Allen ('03), Nate Guess ('03), Joe Beard ('03), Jamie Rowat ('03), Lisa Thimjon ('03), Jeremy Olsen ('02), Nonofo Tapela ('02) and Joe Ness ('02).

Julie Duhme ('02) agreed that Phonathon was a worthwhile experience. A second-year chair and a four-year participant, Duhme said, "Phonathon is a great way to connect with alumni and keep them connected with Luther. I am looking forward to being connected to Luther with Phonathon after I graduate."

"This year was a little more difficult due to the Sept. 11. It did impact this Phonathon," said Vicki Donhowe, Director of Development for Current Gifts.

"We were down approximately 5 1/2 percent since last year. In past years Phonathon set a new record each year. This year alumni were more cautious in giving." This was Donhowe's eighth year working for Phonathon.

Yet, Luther's Phonathon still proved to be successful, and many goals were met.

"My four years of being in Phonathon both as a caller and as a chair have helped in the efforts of raising over 2 million dollars," said Olsen. "I've talked to a lot of great alumni, who have offered great advice and help in my career life after Luther."

Phonathon would like to thank the following local businesses who donated prizes to give away: K & S Foods, KDEC Radio, Wal-Mart, Pizza Hut, Luther College Book Shop, Blimpies, Fridley Theatres and Kwik Star.

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Kirsten Kumpf
Staff Writer

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