Elon's 13th annual Elon Day sees record-breaking amount raised thanks to the generosity of alumni, parents, faculty, staff, students and friends.
For Elon students, opportunity often begins with someone they may never meet. For instance, a donor who believes in their potential.
That spirit of belief was on full display during Elon Day 2026, as alumni, parents, faculty, staff, students and friends came together for the university’s 13th annual day of giving. Over the course of 24 hours, supporters made 6,214 gifts raising a record-breaking $3.58 million, with each gift being an investment in the experiences that define an Elon education.
From scholarships that make college possible to funding for undergraduate research, study abroad, athletics and student organizations, this year’s Elon Day touched 276 funds across campus. The breadth of support reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that every student has access to transformative opportunities.
“Yesterday, our community demonstrated once again what makes this university so extraordinary,” says President Connie Ledoux Book. “The success of Elon Day comes from the thousands of alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff and friends around the world who step up every year to participate, and each of their gifts is a powerful vote of confidence in the promise of Elon students.”
She adds, “I am deeply grateful to every person who participated and encouraged others to join them. Because of you, our students will learn more boldly, lead more courageously and serve more compassionately.”
Throughout the day, momentum grew as challenge and matching gifts encouraged participation and amplified impact. Leadership donors helped spark enthusiasm and inspire others to give, demonstrating how collective action can multiply opportunity. We extend special thanks to the following individuals for making these initiatives possible:
- Trustee Kerrii Anderson ’79
- Steve Anderson P’16
- Trustee Toni Brown and Michael Brown P’20
- Jonathan and Tina Winnick P’28
- Joe and Lynette Zarrett P’27
- Trustee Dave Porter and Jen Porter P’11 P’19
- Trustee Bill Smith and Sue Smith
- Katie Sherborne P’27
- Liz and David Forgash P’28
- Patrick and Laura Strickler P’28
- Several anonymous Elon families
The celebration extended far beyond giving. Students gathered on campus for special events, faculty and staff joined in the festivities, and alumni across the country hosted regional gatherings. Social media lit up with maroon and gold pride, connecting the Elon community across time zones and continents.
Since its founding in 2014, Elon Day has grown into one of the university’s most meaningful traditions, generating more than $27.5 million through over 63,000 gifts in support of students. Each year builds on the last, reinforcing a culture of philanthropy that ensures Elon’s future remains strong.
For current students and those yet to arrive, the impact of Elon Day will be lasting — measured not only in dollars raised, but in doors opened, experiences enriched and dreams realized.
To learn more about the impact of Elon Day, visit the Elon Day website.