Fundraising Events

$7.8M marks beginning of campaign's public phase

Guests basked in recognition and gratitude for supporting the Opportunity for a Lifetime campaign and the Worcester State Foundation, which provided the College with over $1 million last year, including more than half for scholarships.

“Each of us has a story to tell,” James P. McSherry ’53, Ed.D., told over 300 guests gathered in Mechanics Hall’s opulent Great Hall for the Distinguished Donors Reception and public launch of Opportunity for a Lifetime: A Campaign for the Future of Worcester State College on October 16. “Just look to your left and look to your right, and you can be sure that in the person you see, there is a story of lifelong accomplishments that was influenced in some unique way by the Worcester State experience.”

Many alumni are now able to nurture the talented students who continue to enroll at the College, he noted. “Our support is really important and, in some cases, critical not only for our students, but for ourselves and for the people and things we really care about.”

The pinnacle of the evening came when President Janelle C. Ashley announced that the $10 million Opportunity for a Lifetime campaign had raised $7.8 million during its quiet phase. The public phase—lasting through June 30, 2010—will enable this campaign to raise twice the amount the College did in its previous campaign, she added.

President Ashley thanked the gracious guests “for all that you have done and continue to do for Worcester State.” She added, “With your support, we will, through our collective efforts, once again make history when we realize our goal to raise ten million dollars.”

Donors have “responded overwhelmingly” to this campaign, Board of Trustee Chairman George W. Tetler III added. “Our alumni, especially, have stepped up to the plate. Alumni giving is at an all-time high and is now at pace to surpass that of foundations and corporations.”

Danny Hamler speaks to guests.

He praised guests who have made commitments to the campaign and encouraged others present to pledge their support. “We have turned the corner!” Tetler said. “You can take us to the finish line!”

Gunnery Sgt. Danny Hamler epitomizes the essence of the campaign. “As one of the first recipients of Lt. Col. James Sheehan’s scholarship, I can personally attest to how opportunity directly leads to success,” the senior said. “It has not only eased my financial burden in pursuing my college education, but it has also provided me with a level of self-confidence. The knowledge that Lt. Col. Sheehan…believes and has faith in me to follow in his footsteps is humbling. This opportunity has allowed me to achieve levels of excellence higher than I ever imagined!”