Alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends came together to support scholarships, programs, and the Laboratory Schools at Illinois State University on Giving Tuesday, November 28. Donors made 1,473 gifts totaling $525,496.
Illinois State began participating in Giving Tuesday four years ago, making it one of the first universities in the country to seek support during the worldwide day dedicated to generosity and giving back. Illinois State emeriti, alumni, and friends pledged challenge gifts to encourage others to show their support on Giving Tuesday. Gifts were accepted online and donors were able to designate specific departments, programs, the University’s Laboratory Schools, WGLT, and scholarship funds that benefit students attending Illinois State.
Contributions made on Giving Tuesday contribute to Redbirds Rising: the Campaign for Illinois State, a comprehensive campaign that supports all areas on campus. The $150 million campaign is the second in university history. Giving Tuesday marked a milestone in the campaign eclipsing more than 15,000 new donors to the University since the start of the campaign in July 2013.
“Our alumni and friends play an active role in building a strong culture of philanthropy here at Illinois State,” said Lora Wey, executive director of Annual Giving. “Giving Tuesday has become a visible representation of the vast network of alumni and friends who care deeply for the future of the University.”
“The extended Redbird family continues to show its generosity and support for Illinois State University,” said President Larry Dietz. “A number of very important programs and scholarships are supported by the financial gifts received on Giving Tuesday. Our thanks go to all those who contribute to Illinois State’s continuing success.”
