Together, We Can Meet Our Goal and Change Lives
Dear Club Members,
As we approach the final stretch of the year, I am writing to encourage all of us to come together and finish strong for our scholarship program. Every year, your generosity has created opportunities for deserving students, and I truly be-lieve we can do it again.
While we won’t have the Style Show in May to help as a fundraising opportunity, there’s still a way to make a difference. I’d like to urge you to consider donating what your $30 ticket would have cost directly to the scholarship fund. It may seem like a small gesture, but every little bit brings us closer to meeting our goal—and more importantly, closer to changing lives.
We're currently just $2,000 shy of meeting our goal for the year. Your generosity could make the difference. Additional-ly, you might inspire your loved ones to contribute by making a donation in your name for special occasions like Valen-tine’s Day, Mother’s Day, or even a birthday.
To make a donation, simply refer to the donation slip on the preceding page (8) of this issue for instructions to mail a check or make an online contribution. It’s quick, easy, and impactful.
With your help, we’ve already achieved so much this year. Imagine what we can achieve to-gether by closing this final gap! Please join me in taking this last step toward meeting (or even surpassing) our goal and creating opportunities for those who need it most.
Thank you for your continued dedication and generosity. Together, we can make a difference.
Warm regards,
Monica Hayes
Scholarship Chair
How Student Loan Debt is Impacting the Lives of Young Adults
Student loan debt continues to weigh heavily on today's young adults, shaping their financial futures and delaying major life goals. For the 43.5 million borrowers in the United States, this burden often feels insurmountable.
Key Statistics:
72% of millennials with student loan debt say it has delayed their ability to purchase a home. Homeownership, a critical step toward building financial stability and generational wealth, remains out of reach for millions due to lingering loan repayments.
It takes an average of 20 years to completely pay off student loan debt. For many borrowers, this means decades of financial strain, preventing investments in personal growth, savings, and retirement planning.
The Impact of Student Debt in Iowa :
Iowa ranks 22nd in the nation for average student loan debt. On average, Iowa borrowers owe approximately $30,000 upon graduation.
Nearly 64% of Iowa college graduates leave school with student loan debt. This highlights the significant challenge many students in the state face when pursuing higher education.
Rural communities in Iowa are hit especially hard. With lower average incomes in these areas, repaying student loans can take even longer, further widening the economic gap.
These state-specific statistics emphasize the critical need for scholarships to support Iowa women.. By easing the financial burden, scholarships empower students to focus on their education without the looming shadow of debt hindering their future.
Let's Make a Difference Together
You have the power to help. By making a donation to support local Iowa women in financial need, you make an invaluable difference in their lives. Your contribution directly funds scholarships, giving them a brighter future unburdened by crippling debt.
Join us in creating opportunities and breaking the cycle of student debt. Make your donation today and leave a legacy of transformation for the next generation
Monica Hayes Finance Chair 2024/25
Many of you have already made generous donations to The University Club scholarship fund from the Required Minimum Distribution from your IRA. I won’t pretend to be a financial advisor but it is my understanding that in 2021, there is no longer an RMD waiver, and the age has changed to 72. Your donations to The University Club Scholarship Fund are always deductible expenses because you write the checks to the UI Center for Advancement. Please do contact your financial advisor if you are considering this form of donation. If your check is sent directly to the Center for Advancement, and this is the preferable route, due to privacy rules, the foundation will not notify us of your generosity. In order to add your donation to our total for the year, to receive coupons for a free luncheon, recognition in the Clarion and the Honor Roll in the Yearbook, you, the donor, will need to notify the Finance Chair, Monica Hayes at the address on the donation coupon in this Clarion. Thank you!
Kathy Maxwell
Finance Chair 2021-2022
The University Club
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