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We Are Stronger Together
Helping WVU students affected by COVID-19
Unite for WVU students in need
As WVU emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, the effects of this global health crisis are still being felt in West Virginia and beyond. The lasting economic impact will affect the University community and its students for years to come. Yet, even amid the most challenging circumstances, the WVU family’s compassion for our students and overwhelming generosity have brought us together. In the spirit of Mountaineers leading, we encourage you to continue to support the “We Are Stronger Together” initiative, a special fund drive to provide scholarship aid for students in need.
Every Dollar Helps
With examples ranging from $500 to $150,000, get a better understanding of the immediate impact your gift can make. By directly connecting your donation to specific outcomes, you will see that gifts at any level make a real difference in the lives of WVU students in need.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, WVU students and their families have shared heart-wrenching stories about the significant impact on their lives.
Freshman pre-pharmacy major Kara DiNardo said scholarship support helped her continue her studies after her father’s employer reduced hours and laid off workers due to the pandemic.
“To the people who donated, thank you so much,” DiNardo said. “It means a lot, especially during these unprecedented times. To those considering donating, know that your donation wouldn’t go unnoticed and would be appreciated by many other kids like me.”
Even as COVID-19 safety restrictions ease in West Virginia and beyond, many WVU students and their families are struggling to afford higher education costs due to the pandemic’s lasting financial impact. Without scholarship aid, these students may be forced to suspend attending classes, enroll elsewhere or drop out altogether.
We understand the unique challenges you may be facing, yet we know that Mountaineers always come together in times of crisis. To date, generous support from alumni, donors and friends has provided more than $23 million to ensure students fulfill their dreams of attending and graduating from college.
Sophomore Erin Fennelly was unsure she could afford to continue her studies after she was laid off from her restaurant job last year. As she struggled to find work, her dad’s job was also affected by the pandemic.
“When I found out that I had received the We Are Stronger Together Scholarship, I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders,” Fennelly said. “…To anyone that donated to this fund, I cannot thank you enough. I can safely say that I had a better freshman-year experience because of you. I enjoyed it more because of you, and I will forever be grateful for how much you helped me.”
Ram Jitendrabhai Zaveri, an international student majoring in neuroscience and computer science, was unable to return home following the spring 2020 semester due to COVID-19 restrictions. His uncle died of the virus, and Zaveri’s father provided aid to the family. In the meantime, Zaveri relied on a research position and donor support to proceed with his education.
“The name of the scholarship is ‘We Are Stronger Together,’ right? We are, indeed, stronger together,” Zaveri said. “I really appreciate your support and your help during this time period.”
KRISH THAKKAR
“I would say that any kind of donation is a big thing and even a little donation changes the student's life. I and my family were having a hard time arranging financials for me during the pandemic and the scholarship helped me a lot. It wouldn't have been possible for me to survive and finish my education without the help of the scholarship.”
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
WVU is playing an important role in West Virginia and beyond as we rebound from COVID-19.
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thank you.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to touch our lives in ways big and small. We understand the unique challenges you may be facing. For those who are willing and able to give, your gift means more than ever, and we appreciate your commitment to WVU.