The University of Calgary community has once again come together to support the United Way of Calgary and Area, raising an impressive $332,649 during the 2025 United Way Workplace Campaign.
UCalgary Cannon Cup winners, External Relations, and staff from runners-up Libraries & Cultural Resources and Finance and Services. Photo Credit: Riley Brandt, University of Calgary
The campaign concluded with a celebration event where the final fundraising amount was revealed marking one of the most successful campaigns yet.
Strong fundraising and community participation
This year's fundraising efforts rallied faculty, staff, students, alumni and partners from across the university to help drive meaningful change for individuals and families in need.
The campaign continued to support the United Way's Community Impact Fund, which provides stable financial support to more than 130 local agencies that deliver essential services such as food security, shelter, mental health resources and social-inclusion programs.
Throughout the fall campaign period, more than 50 engaging events including bake sales, fairs, raffles and more energized campus participation. Unique initiatives like Sparks of Gratitude offered a creative way for community members to share appreciation with colleagues while contributing to United Way's cause.
At the forefront of these efforts was the campaign cabinet, composed of representatives from across all faculties and units. Serving for a second consecutive year as co-chairs, Amanda Affonso, BA'00, associate vice-president (Community Engagement), and Dr. Tara L. Beattie, PhD, vice-provost and dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, once again provided strong leadership and continuity, helping guide the campaign's momentum and overall success.
At the wrap-up event, faculties and units that went above and beyond were recognized with awards for their contributions.
Very Special Events Award
This award is given to the faculty or unit raising the most money through special events.
- 1st place: Cumming School of Medicine
- 2nd place: Libraries & Cultural Resources
- 3rd place: Faculty of Nursing
Hard Core Award
This award is given to the faculty or unit with the largest number of core donors, which is any donation less than $1,200.
- 1st place: Finance and Services
- 2nd place: Faculty of Arts
- 3rd place: Libraries & Cultural Resources
Leader in Leadership Giving Award
This award is given to the faculty or unit with the largest number of Leadership Giving donations, which is any donation between $1,200 and $10,000.
- 1st place: Faculty of Arts
- 2nd place: Cumming School of Medicine
- 3rd place (tie): Haskayne School of Business/Schulich School of Engineering
Outstanding Participation Award
- 1st place: External Relations
- 2nd place: Finance and Services
- 3rd place: Libraries & Cultural Resources
The prestigious Cannon Challenge Cup, named in honour of former UCalgary President Elizabeth Cannon, was also awarded. This recognition celebrates faculties and units with best overall campaign performance. The 2025 recipient was External Relations, followed by Libraries & Cultural Resources and Finance and Services.
A legacy of giving
Total raised in the 2025 campaign. Photo Credit: Riley Brandt, University of Calgary
UCalgary has supported the United Way of Calgary and Area for more than three decades, contributing millions of dollars through annual workplace campaigns. This partnership reflects the university's ongoing commitment to community leadership and service.
"The dedication and kindness shown across our community this year reflects the spirit of UCalgary and demonstrates what we can achieve together," Affonso said at the event. "From creative fundraising events to individual acts of generosity, every contribution played a role in strengthening our collective impact and supporting United Way's vital work across Calgary.
Thank you to everyone who participated to make a real difference in the lives of people across Calgary and beyond!
