Hailey Nelson
News Editor
Weeks before homecoming decorated campus with more school pride, the Bengal community banded together to raise money for Idaho State University in the annual I Love ISU Campaign.
On Sept. 18 and 19, a variety of activities and fundraising events took place, including an Uno Tournament, an 80’s Party, and a Three-Point Shootout Tournament. In less than a day, I Love ISU raised more than $425,000 in donations through people and organizations from across the United States.
“This year was a massive benchmark,” said Kevin Jones, Immediate Past Chair of the campaign. “Our donors and community showed up in a way they never have in the past.”
The 2019 I Love ISU Campaign raised roughly %159 more money than in previous years. Those in charge of the event were overcome with gratitude for the support, calling this year’s turn out “pretty historic.”
“Thank you,” said Jones. “I don’t know if people realize the impact that has on the university.”
16 different areas, including each separate college, Bengal Athletics, Greek Life, the Honors Program, KISU and others benefitted from these donations.
Kallee Valentine, the campaign director, said that it was “wonderful” to see so much support for ISU. This year, her goal was to “try something different,” and “make it [the campaign] more visible.”
The campaign’s main events were thus held in more obvious places, such as in the Pond Student Union Building, where most of the campaign’s results were announced.
“We wanted to interact with the students,” said Valentine. “There were three main events: the 80’s dinner provided through Chartwells, the basketball tournament through Bingham Healthcare, and the UNO Tournament through Idaho State Credit Union.”
Many other local businesses, students, community members and anonymous donors contributed to this year’s fundraiser. Their contributions went to the program of their choice, and many may fund scholarships for local students.
“I am always in awe of people’s generosity,” Valentine said.
Valentine also mentioned that support does not always have to be monetary, and does not have to be limited to the week of the campaign.
“There are so many ways to show Bengal pride,” said Valentine. “Giving is just one of them.”
One display of pride she hopes will continue thriving throughout the semester is the use of #raisetheROAR, a hashtag started to spread the word about what it means to be a Bengal. Instagram and Twitter users have the opportunity to show how they contribute to the ISU community.
Valentine calls the hashtag a “call to action,” hoping it will push students and community members to really care about the university.
“I invite everyone to do that,” she said.
More information about the results of this campaign can be found online at raisetheroar.isu.edu.
