Here's the 'scoop':
Family Fund kickoff draws hundreds
The University's diverse flavors were on display as hundreds of employees--active and retired--from every department, school, and college attended the Family Fund 2008-09 Ice Cream Social on Sept. 18 at Russell House.
Several deans donned aprons and served ice cream of all varieties and sprinkle selections.
President Harris Pastides calls Family Fund participation "a great opportunity today to remind ourselves that we are a family. Last year, we were number one in the Southeastern Conference in Family Fund participation."
"You contribute because you're part of the Carolina family," says Romona Keith, a University 101 instructor and School of Law associate registrar. "You want all of our faculty and staff to have increased opportunities to improve their professional skills. And, I also want to help students who may not have the means to come here otherwise."
Lucille Mould, a French professor since 1984, says the decision of which fund to contribute to can be a challenge: So she gives to several. "I like to support students in all aspects with their university experience, including study abroad," she says.
Mould contributes to the French Department's General Fund, scholarships for University 101 students, to University Study Abroad scholarships, and other programs. "I give only to designated funds, and I try to increase what I contribute for each a little each year."
Lola Mauer, director of Annual Giving Programs, says 100 percent participation is always the goal of the Family Fund, which in 2007-08 provided $2.4 million to South Carolina. The College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management was one of 29 University units to achieve complete employee participation.
Mauer says the Family Fund achieves a high success rate because there are literally thousands of worthy funds--all created to strengthen Carolina's programs, endeavors and opportunities. Payroll deduction forms make giving easy and affordable.
A drawing will be held for all units achieving total participation, the big prize being a Dec. 16 breakfast buffet with President Pastides and Patricia Moore-Pastides.
One of the deans serving ice cream, Davis Baird of the South Carolina Honors College, says Carolina is a great investment because of the value of higher education. "Fundamentally, I believe in the University of South Carolina, and I know that USC can reach for greater heights with financial support through the Family Fund."
Baird, who received his doctorate at Stanford, adds, "I have given money to Stanford, but my dollars are going to be more valuable at USC."
This year's Family Fund co-chairs are Viki Sox Fecas, Career Center counselor, and Patrick Hickey, College of Nursing professor. His scaling of the world's highest mountaintops, including Mt. Everest most recently, demonstrates his dedication to worthwhile causes.
"The Family Fund is a great way for all of us to take care of the University every year by demonstrating our commitment to its longterm care and well being," Sox Fecas says.
