Flagler College will be raising money for student scholarships and financial aid on Tuesday, May 9, as part of its annual “Giving Day” campaign. This year’s goal is $25,000 — the lead gift amount the college’s Board of Trustees will be donating, and the amount the Board challenges alumni, donors and friends to match, in honor of retiring President William T. Abare, Jr.
“Alumni participation is important at Flagler College, and Giving Day offers the perfect opportunity for alumni to show their Flagler pride and give back to their alma mater,” said Dr. Beverly Carmichael, the college’s Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “This year, gifts will also recognize President Bill Abare for his 46 years of service and his 16 years as president. Giving is a fitting way to recognize and thank him.”
The campaign will specifically raise funds for “Flagler Fund – Academic Programming,” which directly benefits students and helps to create an exceptional experience for them in the classroom.
Providing quality education while keeping Flagler affordable is one of the institution’s top priorities. Ninety percent of students rely on some form of financial aid. To meet this need, the college has increased funding for need-based Flagler grants by nearly $700,000 in the last six years. Fundraising efforts have contributed to the increase in funding: More than 1,000 students receive financial aid through the Flagler Fund each year.
“Every gift counts, and all alumni and donors can make a difference,” Carmichael said.
All friends and supporters — not just alumni of the college — can contribute on Giving Day. People can make a gift to the Flagler Fund by donating to www.flagler.edu/abare, calling 904-819-6437 or by mailing a check to Flagler College, Attn: Office of Institutional Advancement, 74 King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084.