Lake Superior State University Release
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Lake Superior State University was recognized for its contributions to the local community at the United Way of the Eastern Upper Peninsula Community Builder Awards Celebration on June 6 at Tanglewood Marsh Golf Course.
As one of the top workplace campaigns, LSSU was honored as part of the Merit category – bestowed upon workplaces which raised between $4,000 and $5,999 for the United Way of the EUP's annual fundraising campaign. Lake State also earned the Community Builder Award, which is presented to organizations that work to create a sustainable and positive impact in the local community by participating in philanthropic efforts throughout the year.
"We sincerely appreciate the United Way of the EUP recognizing the University with these prestigious awards," said Dr. Rodney Hanley, LSSU President. "Our employees and students consistently exceed expectations in their strong desire to give back both on campus and in the community."
Lake Superior State Athletics, which had previously been named the United Way's 2019 Community Partner of the Year, took part in numerous UWEUP events and initiatives this past year, including the Thanksgiving food distribution, the Citizen's Review Panel, the Reading Buddies program, Light the Lamp for the United Way and Global Youth Service Day. In addition to the Athletics Department's volunteer engagement, University employees support United Way's mission through monetary pledges during their campaign. Monies raised are invested back into the Eastern Upper Peninsula community through United Way's partnerships, grants and programming.
"We are honored to align with a quality organization like the United Way of the EUP," said Dr. David Paitson, LSSU Director of Athletics. "I'm proud of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff for continuing our longstanding tradition of volunteerism."
"Having partners like Lake State engaged on so many levels increases our ability to ensure programs are serving our most vulnerable populations – not just in the Sault, but across our tri-county region," said Raulaniesa Aranda, United Way CEO. "Reading to elementary children, helping us create awareness of the work we do, and the staff who support that work through annual pledges helps to strengthen our community from the ground up. We couldn't ask for more engaged partners."
For more information and behind-the-scenes action, please follow Laker Athletics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.