Rootstown – The generosity of the Northeast Ohio Medical University community once again shined through as a total of $118,802 was raised from 195 donors during the University’s annual Giving Day, a 24-hour period that kicked off at noon, Tuesday, June 23 and lasted through noon, Wednesday, June 24.
The funds are added to NEOMED’s Blue Fund, the University’s annual campaign which helps make all things possible, like: student scholarships, academic programs, research and student activities. Thanks to Giving Day, the Blue Fund, which also provides support for NEOMED’s Student-run Free Clinic, raised $477,684 for the fiscal year, surpassing its previous high of $411,000.
Giving Day was boosted by two corporate sponsors this year, Huntington Bank and CCG Automation. Several donors stepped forward this year as well to match gifts including $25,000 from CCG Automation and a $10,000 match from NEOMED President John T. Langell, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H, M.B.A. The match from CCG Automation went toward new and increased gifts, which helped introduce new donors to the Blue Fund and encouraged previous donors to give more. Alumni board member Rajiv Lapasia, M.D. (’00) encouraged alumni to participate this year by creating a $5,000 match for all NEOMED alumni.
As part of its total funds raised, the Blue Fund directed $100,000 toward the COVID-19 crisis to help provide relief for students and community members impacted by the pandemic. The funds may be used to replenish personal protective equipment (PPE) that the University donated to local health agencies; to support students with financial emergencies; and to provide free meals for members of the community.
“We are so appreciative of the donors who participated in Giving Day, which helps NEOMED to continue to produce leaders in the health care industry in our local communities, and all throughout the U.S.,” said Brian Wagner, chair of the NEOMED Foundation and president of CCG Automation.
