On Thursday, March 6, donors gave a record 6,385 gifts – the most ever in Elon Day history.
The Elon University community came together in an extraordinary display of philanthropy and pride for the 12th annual Elon Day, setting a record for highest number of gifts in the event’s history. Donors worldwide rallied to support students for this year’s annual day of giving, raising an impressive total of $3.1 million from 6,385 gifts. Throughout the day, participants proudly wore their maroon and gold and engaged on social media using #ElonDay to amplify the celebration.
Donations made on Elon Day play a vital role in increasing access to an Elon education through scholarships while also enriching the student experience across academic programs, athletics, student organizations and other key university initiatives. In total, donors supported 201 campus funds.
“Elon Day is a powerful reminder of our community’s generosity and deep connection to the university,” says James B. Piatt, Jr., senior vice president for advancement and external affairs. “Each year, thousands of people come together on Elon Day to support current students, and this year, we are especially grateful for the record-breaking number of gifts. This incredible show of support demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our donors, and we are profoundly thankful to everyone who continues to invest in student success at Elon.”
This year’s fundraising total was made possible through thousands of contributions, including several special challenges and matches that inspired additional generosity. Thanks to the following donors for their leadership in making these initiatives possible:
- Jerry Neuman P’22
- Jen and Trustee Dave Porter P’11 P’19
- Kerry and Steve Curran P’25
- Melinda Measamer Dickinson ’91
- Kristi and Pete Nevin P’27
- Liz ’06 Sullivan and Bryan ’07 Padgette
- Ashley and Gail Taylor P’25
- Mary and Chris Sexton P’27
- Malika ’03 and Wilson White
- Dr. William Carvajal P’27
- Mindy and Larry Feinstein P’25
- Francine and Benson Pillof GP’27
- Jaime Curtis ’00 and Mike Proctor ’98
- Dina and Trustee Burney Jennings ’87 P’18
- Sue and Trustee Bill Smith
- Liz and David Forgash P’28
In addition, through their generous support, 10 new spaces have been named in the university’s new HealthEU building, and $200,000 in new study abroad scholarships were also announced.
Since the first Elon Day was held in 2014, the annual day of giving has raised more than $24 million through nearly 58,000 gifts, furthering the university’s commitment to student success and excellence.
Beyond making gifts, thousands of students, faculty, staff and alumni engaged in Elon Day festivities both on campus and across the globe. The university hosted a variety of events, including a special College Coffee, the Whittington Residence Hall Dedication, a Pop-Up Student Lounge, Taco ’Bout Philanthropy, a Fac/Staff Lounge, Senior Toast, SUB’s Spring Comedian: Joe Gatto and SUB Late Night Bingo. Regional alumni chapters organized gatherings in cities worldwide, bringing the spirit of Elon to communities far and wide.
For more details on the impact of Elon Day and how donors are making a difference, visit the Elon Day website.