MSU Staff Senate donates $2,000 to Minot Backpack Buddies Program
Steven Shirley, Minot State University president, on behalf of MSU Staff Senate, recently presented a $2,000 check, to the Minot Backpack Buddies Program. The $2,000 was raised during Staff Senate’s annual silent auction.
“Staff Senate is proud to commemorate President Shirley’s inauguration by continuing Minot State’s tradition of service,” said Steven Swenson, Staff Senate president.
In 2012, MSU Staff Senate coordinated its first silent auction to raise funds for the new Domestic Violence Crisis Center Transitional Living Center. DVCC lost its administration building and transitional homes in the 2011 Mouse River flood. In 2013, Staff Senate gave the proceeds to four Minot area food pantries. This year, the Minot Backpack Buddies Program was selected as the charitable cause. Minot Backpack Buddies was launched in April 2013 by Minot State University staff members in a College of Business leadership development initiative with $10,000 in startup funds from the Souris Valley United Way. The program provides nonperishable food items to students in grades k-5, who are at risk of missing meals on weekends.
In 2013-14, 56 Sunnyside Elementary students received a backpack each Friday from September to May with six weekend meals. Sunnyside's selection was based on the percentage of students who qualify for free or reduced meals. In 2014-15, 113 Sunnyside, Roosevelt and McKinley Elementary students receive a backpack. Backpacks are assembled weekly by MSU clubs and organizations, as well as community volunteers. To donate to Minot Backpack Buddies, go to http://www.svunitedway.com/.
In the photo, the individuals are, left to right, Steven Shirley, MSU president, Laurie Weber, Minot Backpack Buddies Program, and Steven Swenson, MSU Staff Senate president.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
| Published: 04/14/15 |
