Emergency Fund to help COBE Students
It started with a man, running shoes and a mission.
Having been through challenging times as a student, Matt Stallings, an associate professor in the Department of Accountancy, wanted to do something to ease financial burdens when unexpected things happen.
“Simply asking for donations is not my style. I want to do something epic to earn support through hard work, a legitimate challenge and a worthy cause. That’s why I decided to run 100 miles. When I was out training for it, I was constantly thinking about the students who could be helped. It was a great motivation,” Stallings said.
Stallings ran the Pinhoti 100, which is a point-to-point, 100-mile endurance trail run starting in Heflin, Alabama to Sylacauga, Alabama. Runners make their way over the highest point in Alabama navigating over rocks, through creeks and across beautiful ridge lines of the Talladega National Forest. Stallings drummed up sponsors and donors before and after his run and successfully raised the amount need to open an endowed fund in 2023.
“As a professor, I have seen students struggle financially and the impact of these challenges on their college experiences. I helped raise funds for COBE students not only to assist our students during difficult times, but as an investment in our community.” – Matt Stallings
Stallings’ emergency funds are distributed through the Dean of Students office, please see the Emergency Fund webpage.
If you see Professor Stallings in the hall, give him a shout out.
Give a little, help a lot
Help support students in need
Life can get challenging outside of class and financial emergency arise. Whether it’s money needed for gas to get home for a funeral, a car that needs fixing or a medical expense, there is a place where students can get short-term financial help — The Student Emergency Fund. Your donation can help support students during tough times and make a significant difference in their lives.