Friday, November 16, 2001

WILMINGTON, NC -- Due to budget constraints, UNC Wilmington will not hold its annual campus and community holiday party, originally set for Wednesday, Dec. 19. Instead, the university will hold a holiday open house for faculty and staff in Alderman Hall from 3 to 5 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 13. Attendees will be encouraged to bring a donation of a non-perishable food item for distribution to a local charity.

The university’s holiday party is usually a festive celebration, including a buffet dinner and special desserts prepared by the university’s food service ARAmark. Viewed as an appreciation event, the party attracts hundreds of university employees and their guests as well as constituency board members, donors, friends, elected officials and community leaders.

Social activities such as this are not funded by state-appropriated dollars. However, Chancellor James R. Leutze canceled the evening gala on the recommendation of members of the Staff Advisory Committee, given that non-state funds are needed to replace state dollars that are not available due to budget cuts.