It's rare to sign a four-figure check with a feeling of pure jubilation.
But two fundraisers spearheaded by Marquette administrators accomplished that feeling of satisfaction this past month.
Marquette's original Denim Day - October 23rd - was torpedoed due to quarantine. However, the second effort on November 6th saw staff and students galvanize the hallways in pink tops and blue jeans. Once the ink dried, Marquette presented a check to the American Cancer Society for $700.00 for breast cancer research.
Director of academic affairs Mary Kay Mark, a breast cancer survivor, praised the generosity of the Marquette community.
"Each year, our students and staff answer the call in a big way. I'm grateful for their generosity and cooperation toward a cause that has affected so many people," Mark said.
In the second year of his work with Folds of Honor, principal-elect Casey Martin announced a donation total of $1,000 for the organization that provides financial aid to families of fallen or disabled service members.
"I'm proud of the work we continue to do for these families. The money we helped raise will go directly towards scholarships for the spouses and children of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. I can think of no better way to honor their sacrifice than to continue our contributions each year around Veterans Day," Martin commented.
Martin designed a quarter-zip pullover with a sharp logo that intertwined the American flag and the Marquette mark. Last year, he created baseball hats with the same logo.
In the spirit of giving, Marquette wishes to thank the many donors who committed financial gifts this past week during Giving Tuesday. The school received just under $3,500 in donations.
The pandemic has put a financial strain not only on many families but on the ability to fundraise traditionally. This past spring's Love Blue, Give Gold Gala was one of the first setbacks of The Great Pause. Despite a vaccine approaching on the horizon, the ability to safely congregate in the coming months creates uncertainty for large social events.
While tuition covers much of the cost of educating a student, a gap of approximately $1,800 per pupil still looms. Past - and future - contributions are a crucial stream aimed toward closing that gap.
As we approach the Christmas season, we thank our many stakeholders for helping us help others. And we pray that God continues to bless you with health and happiness.
