by Nicole Smith
Commodores across the globe came together on June 15 to show their pride and “give for the gold” on Vanderbilt’s second annual Giving Day. Some 5,938 alumni and friends made contributions totaling $2,625,644 and secured a $500,000 challenge gift.
“It is days like Giving Day that show the true commitment of the Vanderbilt community,” said Kyle McGowan, assistant vice chancellor of annual giving. “There is great strength in numbers, and we are incredibly thankful to everyone who answered the call to make generous gifts of all sizes. [rquote]The contributions made on this one day will have an impact on our campus well into the future.”[/rquote]
Giving Day 2017 built off of the success of last year’s inaugural Giving Day, bringing in almost $1 million more in support of Vanderbilt students and faculty than in 2016. These gifts will be put to use immediately to fund things such as scholarships, study-abroad opportunities, innovative programs, extracurricular activities and more.
In addition to making gifts, 1,230 Giving Day ambassadors spread the Give for the Gold spirit on social media. Profile pictures turned black and gold, and hundreds shared their reasons for giving back using the hashtag #give4thegold.
“Vanderbilt has always been about creating connections for me—connecting with thoughts, connecting with friends, and connecting with family,” said Dan Lovinger, BA’87, who served as Giving Day chair for the College of Arts and Science and is also president-elect of the Vanderbilt Alumni Association. “It continues to be my happy place, and that’s why I give back.”
Learn more about Giving Day results and watch a special thank-you video at vu.edu/givingday.