UGA Foundation allocates additional $500,000 to address pandemic challenges

After unanimous approval by the University of Georgia Foundation’s executive and finance committees, the Board of Trustees will allocate $500,000 in discretionary funds to assist UGA President Jere W. Morehead with addressing ongoing challenges caused by the pandemic.

UGA Foundation Chairman John H. Crawford IV issued a statement in support of UGA’s commitment to return to campus for the fall semester and the institution’s continuing efforts to meet student needs.

“The University of Georgia Foundation strongly supports the University System of Georgia and the University of Georgia’s decision to fully reopen UGA’s campus and offer a variety of instructional opportunities to our outstanding students,” Crawford said. “The entire Board of Trustees is grateful for President Morehead’s superb leadership in developing a plan to keep the University as safe as possible. The board is committed to supporting UGA in any way it can to promote a successful semester.”

President Morehead and the UGA Foundation previously committed a total of $900,000 toward student emergency funds, which benefit students who are experiencing critical and unexpected financial difficulties. The additional funds provided by the UGA Foundation will enhance the University’s ability to continue to respond to emerging needs.

Following the successful Commit to Georgia Campaign, which ended June 30, the UGA Foundation affirmed its continued focus on fundraising for institutional priorities, including addressing new issues that have arisen during the pandemic.

“In the last several months, new challenges have emerged which demonstrate a serious need for continued support for the University,” Crawford said. “We call on our alumni and friends to continue to give generously of their resources and time as our institution makes sound and thoughtful decisions that benefit our students during this unprecedented period in our history.”

The Board of Trustees will hold its annual fall meeting Oct. 8-9 in Athens, the first meeting with its newest members.