The Phonathon was a well-known and important historic fundraiser for Bridgewater College. From around 1979 to 2018, Bridgewater College volunteers gathered to telephone parents, friends, and alumni. They chatted about the College and raised donations. Annual volunteer teams of current students, alumni, faculty, and staff operated the Phonathon during its early years. Phonathon volunteers competed to be named the highest fundraiser among students and alumni each year. During its early years, the Phonathon usually lasted around two to three weeks.

In its later years, the Phonathon was staffed by student volunteers and lasted for a longer period of time during each year. Students reported that they enjoyed talking with alumni about their life at Bridgewater College and appreciated the communication and leadership skills that they were learning from the Phonathon.

Researched by Special Collections intern Mackenzie Smith, 2023, and Special Collections Librarian Stephanie S. Gardner.

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