Back in May, after many Marquette community members inquired about making contributions to provide additional financial support to furloughed employees, the university launched an Employee Emergency Grant Fund to support furloughed employees.
In total, the fund received $40,220 from 259 donors. Funds were able to support 51 employees who were furloughed.
All employees who applied during the application period received a portion of funds.
Grant decisions were evaluated by a committee of leaders from University Academic Senate and University Staff Senate and Human Resources. Decisions were based on how many employees applied and total amount of funds available; the goal was to help everyone who applied.
Employees’ reasoning and plan for use of the funds varied as well, but all related to the struggles and expenses incurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Human Resources noted that many employees expressed their immense gratitude for the Employee Emergency Fund through notes of appreciation.
The fund was created through a partnership between University Advancement, Human Resources, Staff Senate, Office of Finance and Office of the General Counsel.
