Webbers inspired by challenge to alumni

As Tom ’69 and Mary (Roach) ’70 Webber can attest, giving is now easy for supporters of UIU. A convenient process is available to help donors make a lasting difference by setting up a recurring gift through electronic funds transfer (EFT) from a bank account or scheduled online gifts using a credit card.

The Webbers recently set up an EFT to show their support of UIU. The couple met on campus as students and recently became more engaged as alums. Tom has served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors since 2018 and volunteered to be a Giving Day captain in 2019, and they both attend as many campus events as possible — with Valentines Day’s “Kiss Under the Arch” being one of their favorites.

“Not only do we see the strong leadership from President Duffy, but also an incredible job carried out by faculty and support staff,” Tom Webber said. “This makes us proud to support the University and be involved when we can.”

The Webbers encourage fellow alumni to consider a recurring gift to support their alma mater. The recurring gift initiative is designed to simplify the process of giving and establish a culture of giving and service at UIU.

“If every UIU alumni carved out $20 per month from their budget and donated it to UIU, over $10 million would be generated annually to support current students and emerging University projects,” UIU President William R. Duffy II said. “I’m not sure our alumni know just how significant that level of support would be for our institution.”

UIU has over 42,000 alums, yet in fiscal year 2020, only 1,172 (2.7%) were UIU donors. All gifts to UIU are tax-deductible, and gifts of any size are enthusiastically and graciously received.

“Being retired, our income has its limitations,” Tom said. “But we were inspired by President Duffy’s challenge and decided to commit to making a small gift each month. We feel our donation is well worth every cent to show our Peacock pride.”

Those making recurring gifts can direct their donation to the UIU Fund or any other program, team or initiative. Recurring gift donors may also eligible for Donor Club or Peacock Athletic Fund membership.

To access the EFT form or schedule your monthly recurring gifts online, visit uiu.edu/Give or contact the Alumni Office at alumni@uiu.edu or 563.425.5388.