In the latest demonstration of its enhanced culture of philanthropy, Marymount University successfully completed its latest Day of Giving last week and arguably it’s most exciting one yet – complete with an all-day livestream, donation challenges and expanded participation across the board.
Held on the nationally-recognized Giving Tuesday following the Thanksgiving holiday, Marymount’s 2021 Day of Giving resulted in significant increases from its most recent Day of Giving held this past February. The total number of gifts donated to Marymount went up by 47 percent, unique gifts increased by 52 percent and the number of first-time gifts to the University was nearly doubled at 95 percent. Alumni participation is also on the upswing, with a 10.6 percent increase in donations compared to the last Day of Giving.
Money raised is used to enhance Marymount’s academic programs, support Saints athletic teams, fund critical scholarship opportunities for students and much more.
“Marymount is an affordable, private university within the reach of students from all kinds of backgrounds, and we’re an institution that is proud to give generous scholarships to ensure our students can attend. On our Day of Giving, it’s important for the whole community to come together and raise funds that will allow us to continue providing the Saints experience to more students,” said Dr. Irma Becerra, President of Marymount University. “The initiatives in our Strategic Plan, Momentum, are all interconnected, and when we improve in one area, it helps our ability to improve in others as well. Generous donations are so important in helping us reach our strategic goals.”
Included in the Strategic Plan is the development and implementation of a new Campus Master Plan, which involves exciting upcoming capital projects like a new welcome center, new student hub and a multipurpose athletic field for Saints Athletics. Completed and underway projects such as the new Main House front lawn and the renovation of Ireton Hall are also guided by the Campus Master Plan.
“Philanthropy is our way of ensuring that Marymount has a prosperous future, and the participation of our donors on our Day of Giving is paving the way for successful programs and new growth on campus,” said Dennis Slon, Vice President for University Advancement at Marymount University. “Our office is actively engaging every day with alumni and friends of Marymount, seeking deeper levels of involvement and investment to support the future of this University that we all love.”
Marymount’s 2021 Day of Giving included many new features to drive up excitement on and off campus, including an all-day livestream event on the University website. Dozens of Marymount administrators, faculty, staff and students were interviewed by Jimmy McCumber, Associate Athletic Director for Development, as well as student co-hosts Jack Tiene and Jackson Newton about their experiences at the University and how fundraising can positively impact all areas of the institution.
Also new this year was the Day of Giving Challenge. With a total of $15,000 in additional funding up for grabs between Marymount’s three Colleges and the Athletics department, the program with the most unique alumni donors would claim first place and the largest share. Athletics claimed the top spot, earning $7,500, followed by the College of Business, Innovation, Leadership and Technology (BILT), which received $5,250, and coming in third was the College of Sciences and Humanities, getting $2,250.
For more information on how to contribute all year round and assure a brighter future for Marymount University and its students, click here.
