Employee Annual Fund Raises Second-Largest Total; $664,192 Marks a 33 Percent Increase

University of South Alabama employees this year donated the second-largest amount in the history of the Employee Annual Fund. In all, $664,192 was raised to support research, scholarships and other activities at USA.

“The employees make the University a success each and every day, and the Employee Annual Fund is a reflection of that strong support,” said Dr. Joseph F. Busta Jr., vice president for development and alumni relations. “We are grateful to our loyal and generous faculty, staff and alumni who give from their hearts and make a positive change for those we serve.

“For many, their gifts are a symbolic demonstration of appreciation for what USA has provided to them and their families. In turn, we are able to provide for others. These gifts allow USA to help recruit the best students, attract and reward outstanding faculty and staff, show corporations and foundations that USA is strong and that our employees are committed to the University’s mission, and strengthen our local economy by keeping USA among the most vibrant of regional businesses.”

The 11th annual fund was co-chaired by Dr. Laurie Owen, associate director of basic and translational The 11th sciences at the Mitchell Cancer Institute, and Dr. Andrzej Wierzbicki, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Paul Helminger, a longtime, former physics professor at USA, represented University retirees. 

The campaign began Feb. 25. This year’s total marks a 33 percent increase over what was raised last year. More than half of the University’s employees contributed, and 37 departments had 100 percent participation.