More Than 270 Local Volunteers are Setting Out to Raise $1 Million for
Student Scholarships During the Second Annual Campaign Kicking Off Aug. 27
Akaash Sharma, Selina Hernandez, Alyssa Long and Marcelle Winkler are among the more than 165 students recognized as 2015 One Purpose Scholars.
Teams of volunteers are getting ready to raise support for student scholarships at California State University, Stanislaus during the second annual One Purpose campaign. Volunteers have accepted the challenge to raise $1 million during the upcoming six-week initiative — funds that will provide direct educational opportunities for the students who will benefit from the resulting scholarships.
The fundraising campaign kicks off Aug. 27 and concludes Oct. 8, bringing together a community of more than 270 volunteers — including Stanislaus State alumni, community and business leaders — who are champions for student success. This second year of the One Purpose campaign will build on the successful effort launched last fall, which raised $818,000 for student scholarships.
“One Purpose is an important asset for our students and our community — supported by the region for the region,” said Stanislaus State President Joseph F. Sheley. “We need more college graduates, and One Purpose is meeting that need by recognizing students who excel academically. They are on the right track to make a positive difference as leaders who will move our region and our state forward.”
Volunteers also will serve as ambassadors of the University as they gather support for One Purpose throughout the region, sharing their own stories about Stan State, as well as stories of recent student accomplishments. Additionally, they will be sharing the theme of this year’s campaign: Every dollar has a million possibilities. The funds raised by volunteers through One Purpose will be applied to student scholarships, meaning that every dollar will reach a student and provide them with additional resources and opportunities to pursue their education.
As a result of the dollars raised during the 2014 campaign, more than 165 One Purpose scholars have received scholarships for the 2015-16 academic year. Many of those students will be on hand at the One Purpose kickoff event on Aug. 27 to express their gratitude and share their future goals.
Selina Hernandez, a first-generation college student pursuing a degree in criminal justice, said that receiving a One Purpose scholarship affirmed both her hard work and her goal to earn a college degree.
“I was honored that the dean of the college recommended me for such a prestigious scholarship and recognized my academic achievement,” she said. “It is reassurance that I can achieve my dreams.”
Those who give to One Purpose are making an investment in students and in a University that is making a difference. Stanislaus State was recently recognized by Money magazine as the top public university in the nation for helping students exceed expectations.
“Stanislaus State attracts incredibly talented students that have a great deal of potential,” said Turlock Chief of Police Robert Jackson. “One Purpose is a way in which our community can support these students and help them achieve. It’s a great investment for the future of our region.”
In June, a $250,000 seed gift was received from the Gemperle family and Gemperle Family Farms and will go toward the One Purpose endowment. The gift makes an enduring statement of support for the One Purpose campaign, and future earnings from the endowment will support and motivate the fundraising efforts of volunteers for years to come.
Those interested in more information — or in giving to One Purpose — can contact the Division of University Advancement at (209) 667-3131 or visit www.csustan.edu/one-purpose.