SHSU to Begin Phonathon

Beginning Oct. 16, 15-20 SHSU students, referred to as Kat Kallers, will hit the phones to inform thousands of Bearkat alumni of what's new at Sam Houston State University.

The callers will also ask if the alumni would like to donate to the university through the Annual Fund.

"The purpose of the phonathon will be two-fold," said Cindy Truax, assistant director for university development. "We want to reconnect, or connect for the first time, with our alums and let them know about current developments, activities and events around campus. And, of course, we will ask for their participation with the Annual Fund."

Gifts through the Annual Fund provide funding for critical needs of the university such as student scholarships, equipment, library and information system technology, development of the university's academic programs and faculty enrichment.

Contributions through the Annual Fund are critical in bridging the gap between actual educational costs and tuition income. Currently, 53 percent of SHSU's operating budget is derived from state funds. As a result, the university must rely upon the generosity of alumni and friends to provide the funding necessary to keep Sam Houston State University at the forefront of higher education.

The Kat Kallers will make phone calls from 5:30 � 9 p.m. on Sunday through Thursdays. The first group of alumni the students will be calling will be those from the College of Arts and Sciences.

Christa Ashworth-Perkins, manager of the phonathon campaign, said she is pleased with the excitement the campaign has already generated.

"I'm very excited to be part of this new program," she said. "I'm pleased with the outpour of interest in the program and the enthusiasm of the student callers."

This is the first year of the phonathon campaign at SHSU. According to Truax, universities such as Tarleton State, Stephen F. Austin, Southwest Texas State and Texas A&M have a similar program in place.

For more information, call Ashworth-Perkins at 936.294.4080.

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SHSU Media Contact: Brandon Autrey
Oct. 8, 2002
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