The Crisafi Challenge continues

2016 contributions allowed for eight scholarships. 2017's challenge is underway.

By: Elizabeth Zipper

Dear Alumni and Friends,

As you can see from this edition of GATORx magazine, the college is excelling in numerous areas and fundraising is no exception. Thanks to 149 alumni and friends who made a gift during the Crisafi Challenge last fall, we were able to award eight scholarships to exceptional students. Every dollar raised during the Crisafi Challenge goes directly to our students. So each year, we are starting again at $0. We hope that you will consider joining the challenge this year — with a gift of any amount — knowing that all gifts, (yes, even $20), makes a difference in the life of a student. With a phenomenal bequest gift from Dr. Robert and Barbara Crisafi, we will continue this legacy of scholarships forever.

Continuing in the theme of student support, nearly 100 alumni and friends gave the gift of professionalism during our White Coat fundraiser for the Class of 2021. Each of our 278 students received a white coat purchased by a donor. Although a $35 coat is a relatively small cost for many of us, the meaning behind this gift is significant, and the ripple effects can be far reaching. On behalf of our students, thank you for showing them that philanthropy is an important part of professionalism.

Finally, we have embarked on a fundraising initiative that has never been attempted before. As the University of Florida moves towards its next capital campaign, the college is placing an increased emphasis on gifts through a donor’s will.  Currently, the college has 30 donors who have told us that they want to give a gift to the college through their will. With over 12,000 alumni and friends, we are hoping to grow this future impact through an initiative called the 10inTEN. In January, we set a 10-month goal to help 10 donors document a legacy at the college. If you would like to learn more about this initiative, and how easily it can be accomplished, please contact us.

Thank you for all you do to make the UF College of Pharmacy an amazing place that fosters the next generation of leaders.

Go Gators!

Elizabeth Zipper
Director of Development and Alumni Affairs