Alumni, faculty, staff, students, friends and fans supported Abilene Christian University on its Day of Giving with 1,450 gifts that, thanks to matching funds, totaled more than $670,000 to help current students – the greatest number of gifts given in a single day to the university in its 115-year history.
“The power of the ACU community is truly amazing,” said Jim Orr, vice president for advancement. “You gave in record fashion and also honored the people who made a difference in the lives of others. ACU is a place where lifelong connections are forged, so it is inspiring to see those connections in action.”
Gifts received will support students in nine areas:
- Exceptional Fund
- Katie Kirby Fund
- Hope for the Future Scholarships
- ACU athletics
- ACU missions
- Carl Spain Center on Race Studies and Spiritual Action
- McCaleb Family Endowed Lynay Scholarship
- Mabee Business Building Jozell Brister second floor classroom wing renovation
- Moody Coliseum renovation
“Our alumni, faculty and staff, and other constituents – including students – stepped in to meet needs and to join in our mission,” said Dr. Phil Schubert, president. “I’m thankful for the many, many people who provided this tremendous encouragement and support through our Day of Giving.”
April 28, 2021, began with a goal of 1,000 gifts, and that number was reached by 4:15 p.m. The total also benefited from matching gift challenges sponsored by donors, including a $25,000 gift for every 250 donations and several matching gifts specific to each area.
ACU’s fourth Day of Giving results surpassed those from the event’s past years in both funds raised and number of gifts. In 2018, ACU received more than 770 gifts totaling more than $216,000 thanks to matching funds. In 2019, the day concluded with 1,000 gifts and more than $268,000.
“Members of the ACU community consistently rally around our remarkable students, and the Day of Giving was another example of that,” said Craig Fisher, associate vice president for advancement and alumni relations. “It’s a powerful reminder of the shared history and traditions that connect us.”
— Wendy Kilmer
Apr. 29, 2021