TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama’s first student fund drive last spring raised more than $9,000 and has already provided scholarships for four deserving students.

The University will kick off its second student fundraising campaign Oct. 6 with a goal of raising $12,000 for additional scholarships.

Known as S.P.I.R.I.T. – for “Students Playing Important Roles in Tradition” – the campaign asks each student to donate $2 to the University. All students, both undergraduate and graduate, are encouraged to participate. Funds go to “first in family” scholarships, designated for deserving students who are the first in their families to go to college.

The campaign was created last year with the input of some 30 student leaders.

“The key to S.P.I.R.I.T. is participation,” said Graham Smith, S.P.I.R.I.T. campaign coordinator. “Many students make sacrifices to pay tuition and living expenses, and we certainly do not want to add to that burden. The suggested donation is only $2, and any amount will be gladly accepted. We hope all students will participate.”

Contributing to the S.P.I.R.I.T. campaign is easy for students. Students may give with a swipe of their ACTion cards beginning Oct. 6 at locations in Ferguson Center and the Student Recreation Center. Cash and checks will also be accepted at these locations. Online giving is available at http://spirit.ua.edu. Checks may be mailed to The University of Alabama Office of Advancement, S.P.I.R.I.T. Campaign, Box 870122, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487.

The campaign continues until Nov. 10. For more information, contact Smith at 205/348-5535 or gsmith@advance.ua.edu.