It’s easy to convince colleagues to donate to the University through its Annual Giving Program, says volunteer canvasser Gene Hirt of the finance department.

“I just remind them they can choose where the money goes,” he says. “If they like the arts, give to the arts. If they have a daughter studying engineering, they can direct their gift to support engineering.”

Faculty, staff and retiree donors have received invitations to an appreciation reception on June 6. The one-hour event will begin at 2 p.m. in the Student Courtyard between Dillon and Memorial halls—rain or shine.

“We want to hold it in the Courtyard so that our supporters can see one of the benefits of their contributions,” says development officer Mona Dosen, one of the event’s organizers. “The flowerbeds in that space will literally spell out our thanks.”

Grounds crews have planted white begonias to letter the campaign’s theme, “Plant a Seed,” in a field of verbenas backed by sunflowers. Facility Services provided the flowers at no cost to the campaign, she notes.

The reception also promises a draw for door prizes, including naming rights to a commemorative bench on the UWindsor campus and gift certificates from Food and Catering Services. The wrought-iron benches are placed along the walkways to provide friendly meeting spaces and to help beautify the campus.

Dosen asks that individuals planning to attend RSVP by May 30 to mona@uwindsor.ca or 519-253-3000, ext. 4279.