Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute community contributed more than $70,000 for the Rensselaer 2020 United Way campaign.

Although the limitations of the pandemic prevented many popular annual fundraisers this year — including the 50/50 raffles at the hockey games, the Thanksgiving lunch, and sales at the Community Fair — the community came together to support the United Way of the Greater Capital Region.

In addition to pledges, the total includes $5,400 from the virtual Rensselaer Runs United 5K Race, and more than $500 from two Dine & Dash events.

Serving as President Shirley Ann Jackson’s campaign co-chairs this year were Richie Hunter, vice president for strategic communications and external relations; Jacqueline Farmer, client support analyst III for the Division of the Chief Information Officer; and Nicole Durrick, business administrator in the School of Engineering.

Campaign coordinators were Tracey Leibach, director of periodicals and editorial content in Strategic Communications and External Relations; and Lisa Martin, administrative coordinator in the School of Engineering.

“As you know, the pandemic has imposed many hardships on our neighbors,” President Jackson said in a message to the community. “Your efforts for the United Way are helping struggling families to meet their basic needs for food, shelter, safety, health care, and education that offers children a foundation for success.”