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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MERCED - Citizens of the San Joaquin Valley now have the opportunity to be part of a historic undertaking with the establishment of the "Founders Fund," a special regional support initiative designed for community members to be forever known as founding friends of the University of California, Merced. "Residents throughout the Valley often ask me 'How can I help?' This personal donation initiative offers individuals and families an opportunity to do their part to launch UC Merced through their support at any level," said UC Merced Chancellor Carol Tomlinson-Keasey. "Together, we will make a difference and make history in creating this new university." Support from private citizens, parents, families, and businesses play a very important role in any UC campus’ operating budget. According to Tomlinson-Keasey, most UC campuses receive less than one-third of their total funding from the state, while federal funding for research, fees, and donations make up the rest of a typical operating budget. By making a contribution to the UC Merced Founders Fund, local community members can help ensure their children and neighbors have the opportunity to attend their local UC campus, and the campus has the resources necessary to provide quality services and make a positive impact on the region. The Founders’ Fund represents the very first opportunity for every resident to be part of the excitement of founding of the campus by providing a contribution at any level meaningful to the donor. Flexibility of choice is key to the Founders Fund, which allows donors to direct their gift to the area of greatest need or to a specific area of their determination. Every resident and business of the county can direct their contribution of any size to such important needs as scholarships, support services, academic excellence, recreation needs, computers and learning technology, or simply let the Chancellor use it to help with the greatest and most pressing needs. Many local residents will soon receive Founders Fund information in the mail. In addition, a special supplement will appear later this month in the Merced Sun-Star and related newspapers. Because UC Merced recognizes it has an important educational partner in Merced College, this fundraising effort also allows contributions to be made to the college. “I join with Chancellor Tomlinson-Keasey in underscoring the important role each and every resident can play as a supporter of quality education, and I look forward to continuing a strong partnership with UC Merced,” said Merced College President Ben Duran. "I am fortunate to work closely with Merced College and Dr. Duran," said Tomlinson-Keasey. "The Founders Fund gives community members the opportunity to make a gift to assist the college in meeting the educational needs of our Valley." Contributions to the Founders Fund may be sent to the address below. Community members who want to be founding friends are invited to make checks payable to "UC Regents" and mail their support to: UC Merced Founders Fund, University of California, Merced, PO Box 2039, Merced, CA 95344 For further information, please contact the UC Merced Development Office at (209) 724-4401. # # #
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