Central College set a new fundraising record during its eighth-annual Hoo-Rah Day. In total, the college raised $395,487 from more than 420 donors to help support student scholarships and academic programs. Participants came from 34 states and two countries — Italy and Malaysia.
Central’s Hoo-Rah Day is an annual celebration of spirit and an opportunity to share Central pride with the community all around the world. In addition to fundraising efforts, the day allows alumni and friends of the college to share photos, stories and videos through social media channels and enjoy festivities on campus.
“The energy and social engagement during Hoo-Rah Day 2024 was exceptional,” says Sunny Gonzales Eighmy, vice president for advancement and a 1999 Central graduate. “We are incredibly thankful for our alumni, students and friends for their continued, unwavering support for the Central family on Hoo-Rah Day. The impact of this annual day of giving and Central spirit will be felt across campus and improve the lives of students.”
The Pella and campus communities raised Central pride with 13 local businesses providing Hoo-Rah Day specials. Student organizations hosted activities all day and into the evening, energizing the campus.
Challenges throughout the day incentivized donors by providing dollar for dollar matches and participation challenges. Thank you to our following challenge donors: Arlys Van Zee Verdoorn ’56, Glenys Nederhoff Theis ’58, Don ’61 and Diana Starr Vogel ’63, Dixie and Will ’67 Hoekman, Dale ’69 and Eileen Miller Vander Wilt ’70, Tom DeVries ’73, Mary Worstell ’73, Sandy Perry Sigman ’76, Jeff Oliver ’79, Ross ’80 and Greta DeCook McCarty ’81, Marty Vanden Herik ’80, Kris Cox Ward ’85, Dave ’86 and Kristi Jaarsma Balk ’88, John ’87 and Julie Pothoven Fisher ’90, Mike Main ’87, Darin ’87 and Teresa Brown Messerli ’87, Barb Pettitt ’87, Paul ’90 and Jeanie Backes Lovell ’91, Tej ’91 and Karen Dhawan ’91, Mike ’96 and Myndi Amdor VanVoorst ’95, Steve and Kara Kohler Hoogensen ’96, Wendy and Nick ’01 Richtsmeier, Jason ’10 and Tayler Wessels Hassman ’13, Marlena Wichhart and other generous anonymous donors.
Jason and Tayler Hassman supported the Facebook challenge for Hoo-Rah Day. They give monthly to support the Journey Scholarship Fund.
“Our time at Central was wonderful and we wanted to give back to help future students achieve the same experience,” Jason Hassman says. “We chose to give monthly because it is easier to give a little bit each month versus having to make a choice once or twice a year to give a larger amount. It has simplified our budgeting, and we believe has allowed us to give more over the time.”
Central celebrated with local businesses who offered special Hoo-Rah Day items. Thanks goes to Cellar Peanut Pub, Cranberry Stone Bakery, Dutchfix, Iris Coffee, Jaarsma Bakery, Liberty Street Kitchen, Nederlanders Tap and Golf, Promotions by Design, The Bread Board, The Curiosity Shop, The Perk of Pella, The Wijn House and Top Shelf Nutrition.
Central offers many ways to support academic, athletics and student programs. You may make a gift by visiting our website at central.edu/give or by calling 641-628-5154. Contact our alumni engagement office for opportunities to volunteer and support our students.
