Penn State Fayette holds student aid fundraising drive through May 31

LEMONT FURNACE, Pa. — Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus is currently holding the Benefit Fayette Student Aid Fundraising Drive through May 31.

Benefit Fayette, which is traditionally hosted on campus with dinner and entertainment, has been transformed into a virtual fundraiser due to restrictions on gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic. The effort has raised over $500,000 since 2016.

One-hundred percent of the proceeds go directly to student aid through the general scholarship fund and student emergency fund. Ninety percent of Fayette students are eligible for financial aid, nearly half of which are first-generation college students.

“Even with our past success, the need for assistance remains great — especially during these unusually trying times,” said Lori Omatick, director of development. “The average annual unmet need for Penn State Fayette undergraduates is almost $11,000. The current economic circumstances make it even harder on those who have lost part or all of the income that they count on to support the cost of education.”

In June, the Benefit Fayette Student Aid Drive will culminate in a professionally designed online program, social media acknowledgements and a press announcement to recognize the generous contributions of donors at all giving levels.

“Although our efforts look different this year, the goal of providing the support that many of our students rely on remains the same,” said Omatick. “We look forward to the time when we can gather again in support of this worthwhile cause.”

Tax-deductible gifts can be made securely at this link or by contacting the Office of Development at 724-430-4190. The deadline to be included in donor recognition materials is May 31.

This fundraising drive advances “A Greater Penn State for 21st Century Excellence,” a focused campaign that seeks to elevate Penn State’s position as a leading public university in a world defined by rapid change and global connections. With the support of alumni and friends, “A Greater Penn State” seeks to fulfill the three key imperatives of a 21st-century public university: keeping the doors to higher education open to hardworking students regardless of financial well-being; creating transformative experiences that go beyond the classroom; and impacting the world by serving communities and fueling discovery, innovation and entrepreneurship. To learn more about “A Greater Penn State for 21st Century Excellence,” visit greaterpennstate.psu.edu.

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