AU Community Raises Close to $1 Million in Emergency Relief Funds to Help Students During COVID-19

As the pandemic waged economic havoc on many students and families this past year, the Aurora University community stepped up with a big heart and a powerful commitment to help.

In true Spartan spirit, when it became clear that there was a pressing need, the AU community responded in a tangible way with generous donations to a new emergency relief fund.

The WeAreOneAU fund, created this past spring, supports students facing economic hardship due to the pandemic by providing short-term assistance for basic necessities. The fund is approaching $1 million, thanks to the generosity and kindness of scores of donors from all corners of the AU community.

“The student need created by the COVID-19 crisis prompted an unprecedented outpouring of giving from AU faculty, staff, and trustees,” said AU President Rebecca L. Sherrick. “The kindness and compassion of our AU community of donors had immediate impact.”

The distributions helped recipients do everything from pay the electric bill, buy groceries, and cover rent. And the much-needed relief allowed many students to focus on their studies during a time of great uncertainty and anxiety, and to continue to achieve their goals.

AU remains dedicated to the welfare of its students, especially amid the challenges of the coronavirus.