Cornell University's campuswide campaign for United Way of Tompkins County has gone over the top, raising $21,600 more than its $500,000 goal -- thanks to Cornell employees, retirees and students. And more pledge cards are coming in, according to Susan H. Murphy, vice president for student and academic services and chair of the United Way campaign on campus.

"Even though the formal campus campaign period has ended," Murphy added, "we're still accepting donations and pledges through the end of December." Pledge cards may be sent directly to 107 Day Hall via campus mail.

So far, the countywide campaign has raised $1,556,350, which is 97 percent of the $1.6-million goal. United Way of Tompkins County will continue to accept donations at its 313 N. Aurora St. office in Ithaca.

"My heartfelt thanks go out to the real heroes of the campaign -- our fellow employees and retirees who understand and appreciate the importance of giving to United Way," Murphy said. "The United Way concept -- one organized way to raise money to support more than 100 local programs -- is a most effective way to meet critical needs in the community."

Murphy noted that donations support programs that encourage health and wellness, support families, build knowledge and skills, promote self-sufficiency, and help those in need throughout Tompkins County. "More than 1,500 of the thousands of our neighbors and friends who benefit from the services of agencies and community councils supported by United Way are Cornell faculty, staff and students," she said.

"I also want to thank members of the campaign cabinet and the many other volunteers across campus who did everything from distributing pledge cards to helping their co-workers understand the needs we face as a community and how each pledge counts," Murphy added.

The campus campaign cabinet comprises a cross-section of Cornell employees and students. Vice chair of this year's campus campaign is Mary George Opperman, vice president for human resources, who will direct the campus campaign next year.

Thomas LiVigne, manager of real estate at Cornell and a member of the board of directors of United Way of Tompkins County, is the general campaign chair for the 1998 countywide campaign.

LiVigne said the Cornell campus campaign was the first of the local divisions to reach its goal. "Cornell's leadership and commitment to United Way is remarkable. As a Cornell employee, I am especially proud of my university colleagues for their generosity and willingness to help make our community a better place to live and work," he said.