The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts has faced some unexpected challenges during this spring semester.
Students were required to move out of the Student Center in March because of the developing COVID-19 pandemic. Many other changes for students and staff alike followed, but each has accepted the challenges they’ve experienced.
“Our students are resilient. They are brave and courageous,” said ASMSA Director Corey Alderdice. “Their strong commitment to their goals leads them to overcome challenges along the path in pursuit of their dreams. Our faculty and staff empower these talented and motivated young people through ASMSA’s mission to create, encourage, and sustain this special community of learning. That has never been truer than in this semester.”
On May 20, the ASMSA Foundation will hold a Day of Giving with a goal of raising $40,000. Several generous donors have accepted the challenge to help ASMSA meet that goal. They have pledged to match up to $20,000 of your gifts to the Foundation.
Each year, the Foundation hosts the annual Community of Learning Luncheon in the spring. The event provides an opportunity for our Foundation Board of Ambassadors, students, alumni, local community and advocates nationwide to come together in support of ASMSA.
“The ASMSA Foundation Fund provides unrestricted support for areas of greatest need, benefiting all students,” said Sara Brown, Ph.D, director of institutional advancement at ASMSA and the ASMSA Foundation Fund. “From programmatic support to regional and state research initiatives, we are honored to provide resources for a variety of innovative learning experiences.”
Because of the limits placed on social gatherings by the pandemic, ASMSA shifted the annual event to a Day of Giving. Challenges Accepted has been chosen as the theme to recognize the matching gift challenge and the challenges faced by the campus community.
Some examples of support the ASMSA Foundation has provided this year includes:
- Response to the COVID-19 pandemic by providing vouchers for food insecurity and internet access to low-income students;
- Student capstone research projects and regional competitions;
- Departmental resources and student wellness initiatives; and
- Summer fellowship opportunities.
“ASMSA gives Arkansas’ remarkable young people the opportunity to learn by doing, grow from failures, and develop the skills they need to handle what life throws their way,” Brown said. “We need your help to provide positive and dynamic learning experiences for as many students and faculty as possible.”
All gifts can make a difference, regardless of size, she said, but by participating in the Day of Giving on May 20, “you can double the impact of your gift. At ASMSA, we grow leaders, collaborators, communicators, and contributors. They become positive members of their communities, workplace, and home. Small gifts make a big difference.”
For more information on the Day of Giving and to make a gift, visit https://asmsa.me/challengesaccepted.