Our students are showing their big hearts by donating to the University. The Alumni Association's Grad Fest celebration event raised $13,608 so far this year, with over 570 students donating. Students have the opportunity to give to either the Student Cupboard, student scholarships or our live mascot, Victor E. Bulldog III.

This year's donations are up from last year's, with the Alumni Association reaching out to students through email and social media and interacting with them based on what they feel most connected to on campus. Last year, donations went only to scholarships, but this year, students had two more options.

"Planting the seed of philanthropy while students are still on campus is extremely important to turning them into life-long donors," said Amanda Hall (Alumni Relations). "People donate to areas they feel connected to, so building that initial connection while they’re here and then maintaining it after they have moved on is key."

Through participating in philanthropy, students are already helping build a solid foundation for student success and paving the way for future donors.

"Many young alums feel they shouldn’t donate because they can’t give a large enough amount that will make a difference, so my goal for the graduates is to show them that smaller gifts can make a big difference as well," she added. "Every gift matters."

Students still have the opportunity to donate until May 4 to receive a ‘student donor’ sash and get special recognition at the Commencement Ceremony. They can donate here.