If you’ve ever wondered how a gift to CSU – even a small one – impacts students, consider Marianna Haneke.
Haneke is set to graduate in May with degrees in biomedical engineering and mechanical engineering. She plans to use what she’s learned to make a positive impact on human health.
“I was immediately captivated by the diverse amount of biomedical and mechanical research that occurs at CSU,” she said of her first days on campus. “I ultimately knew that by pursuing an engineering degree I would have the opportunity to positively influence modern-day health. Each new class, professor or internship I’ve encountered has only reaffirmed my ambition to join research and product development in the medical device industry.”
Your support matters
Despite her challenging double major, Haneke has found time to immerse herself in campus life. She took part in an alternative spring break in New Orleans through her involvement with SLiCE (student leadership, involvement and community engagement), has been part of Fraternity and Sorority Life and a member of the Society of Women Engineers – all programs supported by gifts from generous CSU donors.
“Philanthropy has made the biggest impact on me through individuals who ‘pay it forward’ based on their own experiences or struggles,” Haneke said.
It all happens March 7
You can support students like Haneke – as well as academic programs and service organizations across campus – March 7 during the annual Proud To Be Day of Giving. CSU alumni, faculty and staff, and friends of the university are encouraged to pick a cause to they care about. Once the 1,500 donor level is reached, the Proud to Be Challenge will unlock $116,000 in challenge grants that will benefit the campus community.
“This is a great opportunity for everyone who loves CSU to show why they are ‘Proud to Be’ CSU Rams,” said Thea Rounsaville, assistant director of annual giving. “We have a number of funds that are being featured that will help students succeed and thrive.”
Each college and several campus units will have funds they will feature on Proud To Be Day of Giving. For example, friends of the College of Business can support a fund that provides business attire so students can look professional during job interviews. Friends of Warner College of Natural Resources can support a fund that boosts the Mountain Campus education program. And, of course, anyone can support the care of CAM the Ram through the CAM Forever Fund.
See your name in lights, or get CAM’s autograph
This is the fifth Day of Giving at CSU. New this year will be some special incentives:
Make your gift between 8 and 10 a.m. MST and you could be one of several Rams who will be personally recognized on RamVision in Canvas Stadium. Make your gift between noon and 2 p.m. MST and receive an exclusive print of CAM’s hoof. Or make your gift between 5 and 7 p.m. MST and you could be personally thanked by the CSU cheerleaders.
You can follow all of the day’s updates on CSU’s Instagram.
