MANSFIELD, PA – Mansfield University’s inaugural 24-hour Giving Day raised more than $105,000 from over 200 individual donors to directly support MU students.
The Giving Day was held from Thursday, April 7 at 10 a.m. to
Friday, April 8 at 10 a.m. to support MU academic and athletic scholarships.
“As president, it is wonderful to see these results and
how our donors helped make this event a success,” said Interim President
Bashar W. Hanna. “While we’re always grateful for the financial support
our donors so generously provide, the purpose of this event was to generate
participation and inspire alumni and supporters to come together in supporting
our students.”
While checks and other gifts continue to come in, as of
April 8, the University officially raised over $105,168 during this fundraiser
to support scholarships for Mansfield University students. This marks the
largest dollar amount raised during a single university event, helping MU
substantially exceed its initial $25,000-dollar goal for the campaign.
“Our donors did not disappoint,” Hanna added.
“We asked them to go ‘All-In’ and demonstrate the exponential impact
giving in numbers has on all students, and they did just that. Each gift, no
matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of our students, when and
where it is needed most.”
Throughout the Giving Day, various challenges were
announced, with donors having an opportunity to unlock additional support. The
Family of Howard & Olynda (Chaffee) ’57 Smith issued a challenge supporting
academic scholarships for concert choir students to the tune of $10,000. Sig
Tau Gamma Gamma Alpha Alumni Association also cast their support with $10,000
earmarked for student organizations at Mansfield to enhance student
opportunities and leadership development. Interim President Hanna and his
administrative team generated participation from alumni who graduated within
the past 10 years. Multiple Mansfield Alumni launched additional challenges and
matches during the campaign.
The April Giving Day raised more than five times the amount
of Mansfield’s successful Giving Tuesday campaign held in November.
“This is the momentum we anticipated,” explained Casey
Wood, Mansfield University executive director of advancement. “We look forward
to capitalizing on this great achievement as we continue to support our
advancement operations for the benefit of MU students.”
The Giving Day also celebrated the University’s partnership
with the community. Nine local businesses offered community discounts and
promotions during Giving Day. The participating businesses included Night &
Day Coffee Café, Conspiracy Coffee, Papa V’s Pizzeria, Sara Jo’s Stop and Go
(SUBWAY), Sara Jo’s Stop and Go (Yogurt Station), LIL Half Pint, Yorkholo
Brewing Company & Eatery, Thin Line Tavern, and Hotties Hot off the Grill.
This opportunity was made possible through a partnership with the Mansfield
University Alumni Association.
Local band Chasing Rabbits, featuring MU alums Jude Noldy
’98 and Lori Barrett ’86, performed a free concert at Straughn Auditorium to
celebrate Giving Day.
Anyone who did not have a chance to make a gift during
Giving Day can always make a gift to support Mansfield University students at
give.mansfield.edu.