Big hearts, bigger impact: UCalgary 2024 United Way Workplace Campaign wraps up

The University of Calgary’s 2024 United Way Workplace Campaign officially wrapped Jan. 28, with the community raising an impressive $324,766.

The campaign ended with a celebration event where the final total was announced, recognizing the many contributors who made this year’s campaign a resounding success.  

A foundation based on community

This year’s UCalgary campaign focused on driving donations to United Way’s Community Impact Fund, which provides stable financial support to more than 134 local agencies, ensuring Calgarians can access essential services such as food, shelter, and mental health resources when they need them most.

The campaign, which began on Oct. 1, saw more than 50 creative and engaging campus-wide events, ranging from a lively county fair to bake sales, silent auctions and book fairs. Representatives from every UCalgary unit worked tirelessly to organize these events, and their dedication was reflected in the fund-raising total, and the sense of community fostered through their efforts.

Adding a unique touch to the campaign, UCalgary’s Sparks of Gratitude campaign offered a fun and heartfelt way for individuals to show appreciation for colleagues while supporting United Way of Calgary and Area. This initiative saw impressive participation across the university, with 1,340 “sparks” messages of thanks and encouragement delivered across campus.

Altogether, the workplace campaign brought together 2,132 donors from the UCalgary community, including faculty, staff, alumni, and students. 

At the forefront of these efforts was the campaign cabinet, composed of representatives from across all faculties and units, co-chaired by Amanda Affonso, BA’00, associate vice-president Community Engagement, along with Dr. Tara L. Beattie, PhD, vice-provost and dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Their leadership provided direction and momentum for the success of this year’s campaign.

Celebrating success

At the wrap-up event, the faculties and units that went above and beyond were recognized with several awards for their contributions.

Very Special Events Award: 

This award is given to the faculty or unit raising the most money through special events.

• 1st place: Cumming School of Medicine
• 2nd place: Libraries and Cultural Resources
• 3rd place: Werklund School of Education

Leader in Leadership Giving Award: 

This award is given to the faculty or unit with the largest number of Leadership Giving donations, which is any donations between $1,200 and $10,000.

• 1st place: Cumming School of Medicine
• 2nd place: Faculty of Arts
• 3rd place: Central Administration

Hard Core Award: 

This award is given to the faculty or unit with the largest number of core donors, which is any donation less than $1,200.

• 1st place: Cumming School of Medicine
• 2nd place: VP Research
• 3rd place: Faculty of Arts

Outstanding Participation Award:

• 1st place: Faculty of Graduate Studies
• 2nd place: Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning
• 3rd place: VP Development and Alumni

The prestigious Cannon Challenge Cup, named in honour of former UCalgary President Elizabeth Cannon, was also awarded. This recognition celebrates faculties and units with best overall campaign performance. The 2024 recipient was Libraries and Cultural Resources, followed by the Werklund School of Education and VP Research.

A lasting impact

"The kindness and effort poured into this campaign reflect the heart of what makes UCalgary so special — our commitment to each other and our community," says Affonso. 

The incredible dedication of our faculty, staff, students and alumni highlights the shared commitment to building a stronger, more supportive community.

Thank you, UCalgary, for making a difference!