WVU Day of Giving raises over $46 million for student support

West Virginia University shattered records with its eighth Day of Giving, raising $46.2 million in 24 hours. A surge in generosity supported scholarships, research, and community programs across WVU.

West Virginia University’s community rallied with unprecedented generosity during its eighth Day of Giving, shattering records by raising over $46.2 million through more than 10,300 gifts in just 24 hours. The March 26 event, themed “Go above. Go beyond,” highlighted the critical role of private donations in advancing student scholarships, healthcare, research, and community programs across the university’s statewide network. This year’s total nearly doubled 2024’s $30.4 million milestone, reflecting growing enthusiasm among alumni, faculty, staff, and first-time donors, with over 1,300 contributors participating for the first time.

Among the standout gifts was a $2.15 million commitment from Terry Stockman supporting multiple colleges, alongside transformative donations to WVU Tech in Beckley, including $750,000 from Roger O’Dell and $279,000 from Nemacolin. The WVU School of Nursing emerged as a top beneficiary, securing over $1.3 million from 120 gifts to fund scholarships, peer tutoring, and community health initiatives like Faith Community Nursing. Hourly challenges and social media buzz spurred friendly competition, with donors unlocking bonus funds by hitting participation goals—such as the School of Nursing’s $25,000 rewards for achieving 50-gift milestones in two separate challenges.

WVU Extension, active in all 55 West Virginia counties, emphasized how even small contributions amplify programs like 4-H youth development, agritourism, and emergency responder training. Supporters could direct gifts to hyperlocal causes, such as unlocking a $10,000 match for Nicholas County’s camp fund with just 50 donations. “Every gift creates real change where it matters most,” organizers noted, stressing how community-driven funding bridges gaps in education and resources.

President Gordon Gee praised the “tremendous generosity” fueling WVU’s land-grant mission, while Kristen Shipp of the WVU Foundation highlighted the collective impact of Mountaineers worldwide. Since its 2017 launch, the Day of Giving has cumulatively raised over $142 million from 46,000 gifts, underscoring its role as a cornerstone for student success and statewide outreach. For those inspired to contribute beyond the day itself, the university continues to welcome support for scholarships and program expansions, ensuring West Virginians have lifelong access to opportunity.