adds $1,200 to endowment
Proceeds to benefit students who serve as URI mascot
KINGSTON, R.I. – July 17, 2007 – Buyers braved a steady drizzle on a dreary late spring day to buy everything from small appliances to toys at the Fourth Annual Rhody the Ram Yard Sale.
That spirit among the customers and volunteers was the reason why $1,200 was raised to support students who serve as the University of Rhode Island mascot at athletic events, alumni programs and other campus events.
“All the volunteers and customers I talked with had a blast,” said Gerri Beagle, fiscal manager of the URI Foundation and co-coordinator of the yard sale. “People got bargains galore and one teacher from Kingston Hill School bought two carloads of items for her classroom. We’re already looking forward to next year.”
In addition, the URI Recycling Program donated 814 pounds of clothes and 2,000 pounds of non-perishable food to area charities. The food and clothing were collected in May as students moved out of their residence halls at the close of the semester.
“There are plenty of winners in this effort — our own students who provide spirit at athletic contests and campus events, and families who might need assistance with food and clothing,” said Nancy Hawksley, URI recycling coordinator and yard sale co-coordinator.
The endowment now stands at more than $20,000. Interest from the endowment is used to fund scholarships to assist students who perform as Rhody the Ram. In the past, student volunteers have not received financial support for their efforts.
Rhody the Ram represents the spirit of URI at home and on the road. The Ram made its first official appearance in 1929 when Rhode Island State College played Connecticut in football. Over the years the name has changed from Battering Ram to Ramses to Rhody the Ram, but URI’s much-loved mascot has always been at the heart of URI spirit.
Pictured above
ALL SMILES: Even a drizzly day didn’t dampen the smiles at the Fourth Annual Rhody the Ram Yard Sale.
BIG SELECTION: Two youngsters check out a great selection of toys at the Fourth Annual Rhody the Ram Yard Sale.
URI News Bureau photos by Michael Salerno Photography.