Just over two months ago, the Rowan College at Burlington County Foundation set into motion their annual fundraiser. What was traditionally a themed, in-person banquet, complete with food, guest speakers and live interaction turned into a virtual campaign due to pandemic restrictions. The challenge? Keep participants engaged. The idea? A college-wide Battle of the Barons pitting various departments against one another in a friendly competition to see who could raise the most money for students. 

Thanks to generous donations from individuals and sponsors, the Battle of the Barons campaign raised over $100,000, making it the most successful virtual fundraiser in the college’s history, with little to no administrative expenses that in-person events required. 

“We’re overwhelmed with gratitude to everyone who donated and spread the word at such a critical time,” RCBC President Dr. Michael A. Cioce said. “In the midst of a global pandemic, it was incredibly heartwarming to see such an outpouring of support from our community.”

The campaign drew over 160 donors and 30+ fundraisers to the college’s campaign page, where they could choose to support the Liberal Arts Allies, STEM Soldiers, Healthcare Heroes, Student Services Superstars or Administration Aces. The STEM Soldiers took the overall lead with over $25,000 raised, with the Healthcare Heroes following closely behind at just over $21,000 raised. For winning the competition, the division will receive a $1,000 grant from the Foundation to purchase a food cart that will be used by the Culinary Program as both a learning experience and way to raise money to support students.

“As a recent STEM graduate and Food Pantry volunteer, I’m thrilled that the college offered an easy way for everyone to give back and pull together in support of all students,” RCBC 2021 President’s Award recipient Rebekah Feinberg said. “RCBC afforded me the opportunity to start on my path toward becoming a surgeon, while also exposing me to service opportunities within my community. I’m glad that this campaign will allow other students to pursue their dreams with little to no financial burden.”

All funds raised from the Battle of the Barons pour directly into student scholarships, the Barons Relief Shield and the college’s Food Pantry. There’s still time to donate for those who feel inclined by clicking here. 

“This past year was tough on so many levels, but our board and community rallied together to support students,” said RCBC Foundation Chair and RCBC alum Karen Albanese. “Thanks to the collective efforts of our donors, sponsors and greater community, our students will begin to see real relief, and we can continue to fund emergency resources, including our Barons Relief Shield and Food Pantry.”