Day of Giving to embrace culture of philanthropy

File photos by Ralph Freso

Grand Canyon University’s 4,100 supporters in 2022 contributed more than $450,000 during the second annual GCU Day of Giving, about double the amount raised from the previous year.

The University is hoping for the same kind of philanthropic enthusiasm for this year’s online campaign, coming up Thursday.

The daylong event, in its third year, focuses attention on GCU’s various programs, from academics to athletics, clubs to club sports, scholarships to the arts. Donations will go toward better equipping and supporting those programs’ needs.

“The theme this year is ‘Thunderously Proud: Then and Now.’ It comes from this year being GCU’s 75^th anniversary, so we are focusing on how far we have come,” said Cherylann Galdi, Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations.

More than 60 programs are participating. Just to name a few of them: Students Inspiring Students, Fostering Futures, LOPES Academy, the GCU Theology Library and Outdoor Recreation. Supporters can help the film lab with equipment, contribute to natural sciences research or to help the Thundering Heard Pep Band go to nationals.

Last year, about 500 students participated as GCU Day of Giving Ambassadors.

“We don’t ask students for money. We want students to become ambassadors by sharing about this day on social media, so that we can cast the widest net possible, to gain donations and awareness of what is going on with the school.”

Outside of the online campaign, activities across campus on Thursday will bring attention to Day of Giving.

From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., an information booth will be set up in the Student Union. Throughout the day, photo stations will be set up in the Union and at Colter. The pep band, Cheer, Dance and Thunder will stop by the Union to spread some GCU spirit. Inflatable obstacle courses will be set up from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Prescott Field, then at 6:30 p.m. on the Quad, a Canyon Worship Live concert will be hosted by the College of Theology and Center for Worship Arts.

“We are hoping to create a culture of philanthropy,” Galdi said. “By becoming ambassadors, students are learning about philanthropy, and when they become alumni, they will remember being in this position and want to give back.”

The website for Day of Giving already is live and accepting donations.

GCU’s Staff Writer Izabela Fogarasi can be reached at [email protected]