As West Virginia University and its students face unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mountaineer Nation is invited to show its support Wednesday, March 3, to mark WVU’s fourth Day of Giving.
The WVU Foundation is organizing the 24-hour online fundraising event as a convenient way for alumni and friends to contribute to the University. This year’s theme, “A Stronger Tomorrow,” reflects the critical importance of private support in moving the University forward – and ensuring students can proceed with their education – amid the economic challenges of the pandemic and decreased public funding.
Previously held in November, officials decided to move the event to the spring as they explored ways to advance the University and the state. The first three Days of Giving raised more than $20 million to benefit WVU students and programs, with nearly 10,000 gifts made.
“Each time I see a student on our campus overcome challenges to achieve his dream or hear about a faculty member who has expanded her research to help us better understand the world, I am reminded of the generosity and support from our West Virginia University family that has helped make it possible,” WVU President Gordon Gee said. “The Day of Giving truly allows the University to make a difference in the lives of people in West Virginia and beyond.”
The Foundation and University will use email and social media to spread the word to alumni and supporters about the special day of giving. An online donation page has been set up at https://dayofgiving.wvu.edu as an easy way for people to make a gift online.
“During WVU Day of Giving, we have the ability for the West Virginia University community to come together to raise critical funding needed to ensure we continue to provide important opportunities for our students, faculty, staff, patients and friends,” said Kristen Shipp, who is leading the efforts for the Foundation. “Your donation, however big or small will make an immediate impact and help provide a stronger tomorrow across our great University.”
The WVU Day of Giving is a University-wide event including the main campus in Morgantown, WVU Health Sciences, WVU Medicine and the divisional campuses, including WVU Potomac State College in Keyser and WVU Institute of Technology in Beckley.
The Foundation – a nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University – continues to provide scholarship support for students in need via “We Are Stronger Together,” a special fundraising initiative launched to assist those affected by the pandemic with educational expenses.