As a result of a new fundraising effort by the Office of Campus Life, Outdoor Action (OA) as well as other athletic and campus life programs might receive an infusion of money in the near future.
Vice President for Campus Life Janet Dickerson began coordinating the largest fundraising initiative earmarked specifically for campus life last winter.
Though the initiative's scope is modest compared to the 250th Anniversary Campaign that raised $1.14 billion, Dickerson hopes to raise enough to provide significant additional funds for 17 athletic and 15 campus life departments.
"We recognize that we have numerous needs that are not currently supported by the operating budgets," Dickerson said.
New funds raised through the initiative will likely endow sevral programs so that they can generate new income on their own each year, Dickerson said.
This fundraising effort is expected to take place over the next three to five years with an official report published in the next six to eight weeks, she added.
In addition to OA, funds will be earmarked to add counselors to health services, improve Dillon Gymnasium, help cultural centers and create a student publications board.
Though OA director Rick Curtis '79 said it was still too early to determine how the initiative would impact his organization, he said, "The good news is that the University wants to provide additional funds for OA . . . We're certainly excited to be included."
Dickerson said she hopes to raise funds for OA from alumni, friends and other donors outside the University.
She added that the Priorities Committee — the body responsible for allocating University discretionary funds — previously had been hesitant to give money to OA.
But with a new infusion of funds, both OA leaders and students are excited for expanded opportunities. "Reducing the costs of the frosh trip will allow more kids to participate," said Margee Prat '05, who led a freshman OA trip this fall.
Lisa Newman-Wise '05, a four-year OA participant, said the initiative might allow the group to plan academic break and winter camping trips for all students, rather than just freshmen.
"It is unfortunate that everyone who has a good time on the frosh trip and doesn't become a leader does not have a lot of other options to take part in OA," Newman-Wise said.
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