University of Arkansas

Department Benefits From GeoHog Challenge

Anonymous donor contributes $100,000 for matching funds

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – An anonymous donor has committed $100,000 to establish the GeoHog Challenge fund in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences. The purpose of the fund is to foster and promote alumni giving to the department of geosciences. For each individual contribution of $1,000 or more, the GeoHog Challenge will direct a specified match to the designation chosen by the individual contributor.

The GeoHog Challenge is being made available to contributors who became affiliated with the University of Arkansas department of geosciences as a graduate or friend within the last 15 years (1997 or later). Spouses of qualified alumni are also eligible for the match. These stipulations have been implemented in an effort to inspire new and higher alumni giving to the department.

“We hope that alumni and friends of the department will help us increase awareness of the challenge, so that we may honor this gift by using it to its full potential,” said Robin Roberts, dean of Fulbright College. “Matching funds often inspire other donors to give, and we look forward to seeing the difference it will make for our programs in geosciences.”

Donors who make gifts or pledge payments of $1,000 to $4,999 will have their contributions matched 50 percent by the fund. Gifts and pledge payments of $5,000 or more, however, will be matched 100 percent. Donors may choose to direct their gift or pledge to certain priorities within the department, including the geosciences doctoral initiative, the geology fund, the department chair’s unrestricted fund, the geosciences advisory board fund or the geography fund.

“Alumni and friends connected to this department should take advantage of the GeoHog Challenge and support the initiatives they care about most. There are many worthwhile designations to choose from, including our recently authorized Ph.D. program in geosciences, which is a very high priority for funding at the departmental and university levels,” said Ralph Davis, chair of the department of geosciences. “Regardless of what designation is chosen, the donors participating in the challenge will be making a significant impact on the department and its capabilities in the future.”

The GeoHog Challenge match applies to gifts and pledges made by December 31, 2013. Donors wishing to take advantage of this opportunity or requiring installment options can contact Dina Wood, senior director of development and external relations, at the Fulbright College development office at 479-575-3712 or dcwood@uark.edu.

Jennifer Holland, director of development communications
University Relations
479-575-7346, jholland@uark.edu