One Day. One OHIO.

Year after year, Bobcats from across the globe demonstrate a broad range of generosity during Giving Day, a 24-hour worldwide event designed to support Ohio University and its students, opening doors for life-changing experiences, making a college education accessible and bridging financial gaps for students in need of urgent support.

During the University’s seventh-annual Giving Day on April 8, a record-breaking 3,295 donors gave over $1.1 million to provide students with experiences and opportunities – all while displaying that the commitment of the Bobcat family extends far beyond OHIO. 

“I am inspired by the generosity of the Bobcat Community—alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff and friends—coming together to celebrate their passion for OHIO through Giving Day,” said Greg Simmons, vice president for University Advancement and chief executive officer of the Ohio University Foundation. “Your collective contributions support students, enrich their educational experiences and enable Bobcats to continue making a positive impact on the world.”

Each year, the Ohio University Foundation Board of Trustees funds a Power Hour, matching the first $200 of each donation made during this period. This year, the Board originally planned two Power Hours at 12 p.m. and 6 p.m.; however, on Giving Day, they announced a surprise third Power Hour at 11 p.m., helping to end the day on a high note. 

More than 200 funds were featured in Giving Day this year, spanning academics, athletics, clubs and organizations. Among the programs supported, donors rallied to share their support for the Marching 110 Practice Field Support Fund, the School of Nursing Fund, emergency student support funds, WOUB Public Media and many more. 

Additionally, a gift of $18.04 or more to any fund allowed donors to name a campus squirrel and be proud owners of a digital certificate signifying their squirrel’s name. Donors look forward to the squirrel-naming every year, and more than 1,000 squirrels are scampering around campus with names following this year’s event — many inspired by the Artemis II moon mission, the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy and recent viral hockey series “Heated Rivalry.” 

Giving Day would not be what it is without the students, faculty, staff and alumni who give their time as Giving Day Advocates. This year, 289 advocates secured 1,195 gifts totaling $259,263. As Giving Day excitement buzzed across campus, students also took part in events scheduled in the Baker Theatre Lounge between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., taking pictures with Rufus, playing games and enjoying treats and giveaways. A scavenger hunt starting on College Green had participants searching for squirrels and golden nuts hidden around campus. Anyone who brought at least six squirrels to the Baker Theatre Lounge won a prize. 

This year, thousands of donors spanning numerous decades helped sustain OHIO’s legacy.

Giving Day gifts support Bobcats across all six campuses. Dozens of scholarships, programs and initiatives benefit from the generous support of Giving Day donors and volunteers.