86 the chili but don't overlook what else is cooking for UA Cares
The Office of the Provost will be holding its annual Pumpkin-Crafting Contest virtually this year. (Photo by Kyle Mittan/University Communications)
(Photo by Kyle Mittan/University Communications)
(Photo by Kyle Mittan/University Communications)
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some UA Cares signature events will look different this year. While some of the best-known events will not take place, two pumpkin decorating contests are moving forward virtually.
The UA Cares campaign began on Oct. 1 with a virtual kickoff event. The annual campaign raises funds for University programs through the University of Arizona Foundation and for nonprofit organizations through the United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona.
The theme for the Office of the Provost's fifth annual – and first virtual – Pumpkin-Crafting Contest is "Clocks and Gears/Steampunk." A $10 donation to UA Cares enters you into the "BYOP" (buy your own pumpkin) contest, with a photograph entry deadline of Oct. 16.
Those who would like to participate should email Jonathan Lazar, administrative associate with the Office of the Provost. Voting will take place via Qualtrics from Oct. 19 through Oct. 30. The office is asking those who would like to vote to consider making a donation.
University of Arizona Health Sciences will also hold a pumpkin decorating contest. Employees north or south of Speedway – and their families – can paint, carve or dress up their pumpkins with any theme. The contest will take place on Zoom on Oct. 22 at 4:30 p.m. Participants are asked to make a $5 donation, and the grand prize winner will receive a gift basket.
"We have so many creative, wonderful people on the UAHS Research Administration team – this event is designed for them," says Maria Grijalva, senior contract analyst and UA Cares ambassador for University of Arizona Health Sciences. "I can't wait to see what they come up with and am so excited to open this up to all of UAHS and anyone who is interested in supporting the UA Cares campaign and all the amazing work it does to help our community and those in need."
Anyone interested in entering can email Grijalva for more information and a Zoom link.
The College of Engineering's research administration services office, which has held a fundraising lunch in the past, says any faculty or staff member who makes a donation before Nov. 1 will be entered into a prize drawing. In addition, the office is challenging each department in the college to raise $750 in donations.
As for the chili cookoff that the Financial Services Office holds each year, that's not happening.
And the always popular chorizo breakfast? The Office of Budget and Planning is considering alternative fundraising events.
Longing for your favorite UA Cares events? Relive the spiciness of the past by visiting previous LQP coverage.
Gabriela Harrod is a student employee in the Office of University Communications.