March 14, 2017
by Jere W. Morehead, President
Each spring, we are reminded of the passion that UGA students have for serving others.
Student-run philanthropies are one way that our students demonstrate this commitment. UGA Miracle, the University’s largest student-run philanthropy, recently celebrated a record-setting fundraising success. Through these students’ efforts, including the 24-hour dance marathon, they raised in a single year more than $1.35 million for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
Volunteer service is another form of student engagement that makes a difference in the lives of others. Last week, nearly 350 students traveled to cities across the U.S. as a part of the University’s IMPACT Service Break Program. Student-led IMPACT trips, which have been a part of the undergraduate experience at UGA since 1994, occur during winter and spring breaks and have provided more than 3,000 students with service opportunities. Through IMPACT, students learn about local culture and history and gain leadership experience while helping to address community issues such as homelessness and poverty.
UGA Miracle and the IMPACT Service Break Program are just two examples of student-led initiatives that improve lives and communities in our state and beyond. Energized and transformed by these experiences, our students are able contribute in new ways to the vibrant learning environment at the University of Georgia, and they are better prepared to make a positive impact on their communities as alumni.