Campaign Arizona $700 million closer to $1 billion goal

UA's $1 billion fund-raiser has raised $700 million, as of Dec. 31, 2001, putting the campaign $300 million short of its goal.

Officials hope that Campaign Arizona, which officially began in 1997, will reach its goal by June 30, 2005.

The University of Arizona is one of only 12 higher-education institutions with billion-dollar campaign goals, according to The Chronicle of Higher Education.

"Of course, that progress is not at all a reason to lessen our efforts, but certainly a reason to feel confident that our goal is well within reach," said Campaign Arizona Executive Director Tom Sanders.

In fund-raising campaigns, December is traditionally the month that brings in the most money, Sanders said.

About $26.3 million was committed last December, compared to an average December income of $9.8 million.

One of the highlights of the month was an $8.2 million scholarship grant from the Texas-based Mitte Foundation to the Eller College of Business and Public Administration.

Funds cut for outreach programs

The university's more than 500 outreach programs lost funding this year as part of the nearly $16 million in budget cuts.

Even though the University Advancement Office's outreach magazine has ceased publication, the logo which helps identify outreach efforts can be downloaded, said Janet Bingham, vice president of University Advancement.

A self-study by the North Central Association indicated that UA is doing a great job with its outreach, but that increasing publicity "would enhance the accomplishment of the overall mission significantly."

Outreach programs, services, courses and events extend the knowledge and creative activities of UA beyond the campus.

Outreach is a focus of Extended University, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and the College of Public Health. Every UA college and division has outreach programs.

"We provide a tremendous service to many communities, both locally and statewide, with the range of diversity of our outreach efforts," Bingham said.

Group recognizes campus leaders

Three UA administrators and one former regent were recently recognized by the Commission on the Status of Women for creating a work environment that promotes equality and diversity.

Kathryn Bayles, speech and hearing sciences department head, was nominated in part for establishing new courses focusing on diversity and motivating the creation of cultural diversity workshops.

Joaquin Ruiz, dean of the College of Science, was recognized for addressing salary inequities in the Dean's Office and allowing workers more flexible schedules to accommodate family needs.

Melissa Vito, dean of students, was awarded for her work with the University of Arizona Police Department to increase the number of blue light phones on campus and improving support for the Associated Students of the University of Arizona SafeRide program.

Former Regent Judy Gignac, whose term ended in January, was given an honorary 2002 Vision Award for her work in bringing diversity issues to the forefront of debate.