Join us in supporting the United Way of Northern Arizona
Dear Lumberjacks,
As part of our ongoing partnership between NAU and the United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA), I invite our university community to join in supporting UWNA’s annual campaign. Along with my wife, Rima, I am serving as co-chair of this year’s campaign and can attest to the incredible work taking place at UWNA to support our neighbors and community in advancing education, health, financial well-being, and community resilience.
Importantly, UWNA’s work is closely aligned with NAU’s vision and strategic priority of community engagement and impact. Earlier this fall, we were proud to elevate our partnership with the launch of the Golden Ticket program in collaboration with UWNA and Coconino Community College (CCC). Through this initiative, students from UWNA’s KinderCamp program will be able earn an associate’s degree at CCC and then transfer to NAU and complete a bachelor’s degree with full tuition coverage throughout their postsecondary journey. By supporting this program, we are not only helping individuals who stand to benefit the most from higher education achieve their dreams, we are also fostering a more educated and resilient community right here in our home community of Flagstaff.
This partnership exemplifies the shared commitment to create lasting, positive change by opening doors to educational opportunities and supporting the well-being of all community members.
For this year’s UWNA campaign, I am proud to share that we have already raised more than $21,000 toward our institutional goal of $30,000. This includes a pledge of $10,000 from the Office of the President to advance educational initiatives being led by UWNA in our community.
I encourage you to consider contributing to this impactful community organization. Participating is easy; contributions can be made through biweekly payroll deductions starting in January 2025, and you can direct your support to specific UWNA programs that resonate most with you.
To pledge your support or learn more, please visit the NAU UWNA Campaign Website. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
As the holiday season approaches, I am so appreciative of the exceptional work and dedication of our faculty and staff to the students of NAU, as well as to your engagement in our local communities—through charitable contributions, volunteerism, and being engaged citizens and good neighbors, you make our community a better place for all.
With appreciation,
José Luis Cruz Rivera
President