May 27, 2008

With the 2008 fiscal year heading into its final month, there is still time to support Maine Athletics and help the department reach its 2008 goal for the Black Bear Scholarship Fund. As an added incentive, those who give to the Black Bear Fund between now and June 30 will be eligible to win great prizes while also supporting the hard-working and talented student-athletes.

Anyone contributing to the Black Bear Fund between now and June 30 will be elgible to win the following prizes:

• 2 suite tickets for a 2008-09 hockey game

• 4 suite tickets for a 2008 Football game

• Authentic University of Maine hockey jersey

• $50 gift certificate to Bear Necessities

• Football season tickets and parking

In addition, gifts to the Black Bear Fund carry certain benefits, as outlined here.

Those interested in making a gift can do so in one of the three following convenient ways by: 1.) calling the Athletic Development Office at 207-581-1130 and making a credit card gift 2.) sending a check or money order to: Athletic Development/5747 Memorial Gymnasium/Orono, ME/04469 3.) visiting www.blackbearclub.org and clicking the "Make a Gift" link across the top menu bar.

Each year, the Black Bear Fund provides invaluable budgetary support for athletic scholarships, which allows the University to attract student-athletes who strive for and achieve success in the classroom, on the playing field and in the community. With scholarship costs exceeding $4.2 million in 2007-08, the Black Bear Fund, along with provisions from the University and revenue from endowed scholarships, supports the hard-working young men and women who wear our uniforms with pride.

"For as long as I've been involved with Maine Athletics, I have been impressed with the quality of our student-athletes and their collective intelligence and dedication," said Evie Smith '59, '87. "I consider an investment in Maine Athletics and the Black Bear Fund as an investment in their success and development as student-athletes."

Please consider an investment in excellence through a gift to the Black Bear Fund and become an active participant in our student-athletes' success!