The University of California, Davis community celebrated the 10th anniversary of Give Day over Picnic Day weekend, raising almost $3.9 million from nearly 4,500 donations both online and in person, according to an April 27 announcement. Since its inception in 2017, Give Day has collected more than $32 million from over 56,000 donors.
Give Day is an annual fundraising event that supports a wide range of university programs and initiatives. The event aims to showcase the impact of philanthropy on campus life and research at UC Davis and UC Davis Health.
Development and Alumni Relations employees promoted this year’s campaign by traveling across campus in cow-themed golf carts called “Fund-Grazers,” accompanied by Gunrock, the university mascot. Shaun Keister, vice chancellor of Development and Alumni Relations—the division leading the initiative—said: “It’s remarkable to witness how Give Day has evolved over the last decade. What started as a single day of giving has grown into a meaningful tradition that showcases the impactful work happening across UC Davis and UC Davis Health, while reinforcing how philanthropy can inspire, support and connect our entire community.”
Challenge gifts played a key role again this year by encouraging early participation; these gifts require a set number of contributions before unlocking additional donations from sponsors. This year’s campaign began with 199 challenge gifts totaling more than $2.6 million.
“Challenge gifts create a powerful chain reaction of generosity, showing what’s possible when our community comes together,” Keister said. “Alumni, faculty, staff, parents and supporters across UC Davis play an active role in sponsoring these efforts, underscoring their commitment to our students and the university as a whole.”
Funds raised through Give Day support many areas including athletics programs, student scholarships and emergency funds as well as research projects across nearly every college at UC Davis.
University California Davis extends its research and educational efforts globally to address issues such as climate change and food security according to the official website. The institution features facilities like the Bodega Marine Laboratory for coastal research according to the official website.
UC Davis holds top national rankings in agriculture, veterinary medicine and sustainability according to the official website. It began as an extension of UC Berkeley focused on agriculture according to the official website, with ongoing commitments through research, education and public service addressing societal needs according to the official website.
Gary May served as chancellor of University California Davis according to the official website.