‘HelpCaseyCole’ raises $4,000 in 24 hours to fund international students’ tuition
Photo by Shay MacLean.
After coffee with a friend led to the discovery of two international students struggling to pay tuition, Lecturer of Theology Casey Cole began the “HelpCaseyCole” project to raise $4,000 before Oct. 31 to fund the students’ education.
“I didn’t know what to do or how to help,” said Cole. “I mentioned the situation to my class to see if they had ideas. After class, a few students came to me and made me the face of this project.”
Sophomore theology major Emma Forstman, along with three other students, came to Cole to assist in fundraising. Forstman made Cole the face of the project.
“I thought we should have a social media presence for sure, and if we made Casey Cole the face of it, it would grab attention,” said Forstman. “I just said to Professor Cole, ‘hand me your phone.’”
Forstman said it felt like everyone perfect for the job was there at the right time. Students helped with graphics, tech, making videos and contacting prominent Lee pages to help spread the word.
The page posted its first video on Oct. 27 with a call to action from Cole asking for help. By encouraging students to donate or share the page, the team raised $500 within the first hour.
Sophomore psychology major Emma Holbrook was one of the four students helping. Holbrook said she was in awe of realizing how sovereign God is throughout the situation. The $4,000 was raised in under 24 hours.
“I seriously doubted we would be able to raise $4,000 in just a few days, but by His grace, we managed it in under 24 hours,” said Holbrook. “My head is still spinning.”
Cole said she was thankful and surprised each time a new donation came in.
“My favorite part was watching how excited Dr. Cole was every time someone donated,” said Holbrook. “She was super passionate about this, and it really showed.”
Beyond the fundraiser, Cole and her team emphasized how the project showcased Lee’s ability to rally around a common goal.
“I believe this project boosted campus morale,” said Cole. “I think we were reminded of how much little contributions matter. I received thank you letters from international students saying how the project made them feel seen and cared for.”
The international students receiving the money are thankful for the project and grateful for the opportunity to finish schooling.
As for project’s future, “Help Casey Cole” is considering turning the fundraiser into a scholarship, but no plans have been confirmed yet.
