Radiothon raises an estimated $3.7 million for SU

This year the Southern University 12th Annual Radiothon that was held on Friday, October 5, 2001 aimed to shoot pass last year’s proceeds of $1,961,893.42. The unofficial total pledged from this year’s Radiothon is $3,751,000, surpassing last years total.
The Southern University System Foundation is scheduled to present the funds to the University on November 17, 2001 at half time of the Southern vs. Prairie View home game.
The Radiothon, which was organized by the Southern University System Foundation, lasted from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The event was sponsored by Guaranty Broadcasting Company, which donated 12 hours of live broadcasting on stations WJNH FM 107.3 and WZRB FM 104.5.
“For the last three years the Radiothon has accumulated well over $1 million each year. And for the past five years, the collection percentage of all monies pledged, have remained on an average of 90%,” said Dr. Leon Tarver, president of Southern University System.
The funds raised from each Radiothon are put directly back into Southern University System.
“The proceeds help fund student scholarships, student book funds, faculty funds, endowed professorships, and research programs just to name a few,” said Curtis Lee, Executive Director of Southern University System Foundation.
The Foundation manages the funds that are received. The Foundation or the contributor determines distribution of the funds. Scholarship committees, deans of colleges, professors, and others have to follow procedure when requesting funds for programs, research, scholarships, awards, and other circumstances that benefit Southern University.
“We want students, faculty and staff to recognize the success of the Radiothon. This is only one day out of 365 days of the year. We must learn to view the Radiothon as a 365 day event,” stated Tarver.
Major contributors of the events included Jack Binion of Horseshoe Casino- Shreveport, Louisiana, Cox Cable, Diasf Plastic, Casino Rouge, The Tom Joyner Foundation, and Xerox just to name a few.
Many people came out to assist Southern University with the event and to make their pledges.
“Last semester, I volunteered at the Radiothon and I wanted to help out again,” stated volunteer Nellie Williams, a senior elementary education major.
“Volunteers and contributors are welcomed,” stated Lee. “For the last three years, the Radiothon has raised well over $1 million dollars and still deserving students are not assisted. We are looking constantly for contributors.”
If you would like to help organize, volunteer time, or pledge money to the annual Radiothon, please contact the Southern University System Foundation at 771-3911 or visit the third floor of the Administration Building.
You may also send information, questions, or pledges to Southern University System Foundation, P.O. Box 2468, Baton Rouge, LA 70821.