The University of Central Arkansas has set Thursday, March 7, as the date for its Fifth Annual Day of Giving – a 24-hour fundraising drive in which alumni, parents, faculty, staff, students and friends are challenged to make a gift of any amount to support UCA’s students, its campus and the surrounding community.

Last year, the university raised an unprecedented $434,526, which set a statewide fundraising record for the most dollars raised in a 24-hour Day of Giving fundraising event.

“Last year’s success shows that our donors and community partners understand the impact UCA graduates have across the state, region and beyond,” said Dr. Kale Gober, vice president of University Advancement. “Through their continued engagement, this Day of Giving will be another great success, and students’ lives will continue to be transformed through their generosity.” 

When giving online at uca.edu/dayofgiving, donors are able to select and give to specific funds among the categories of student, campus and community impact.

“This special day allows members of the UCA community to demonstrate their support for those areas that are most meaningful to them,” said Lauren Norris, director of Annual Giving.

“We want to make a big impact in 24 hours. We want to grant students opportunities that will make lasting impressions on their experience at UCA and change their lives,” added Norris. “Day of Giving will touch all aspects of student life.”

Student impact fund donations will provide students with scholarships and student support services such as the Bear Essentials Food Pantry. 

Campus impact funds support faculty and student research projects, as well as service-learning opportunities and state-of-the-art equipment.

Community impact funds offer experiential opportunities, as well as guest lecturers, first-class exhibits and performances on campus that are available to the larger communities of Conway, Faulkner County and Central Arkansas. This includes Reynolds Performance Hall events, Outreach and Community Engagement programs, Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre and the Conductor, for example.

Many departments have identified giving partners that will match individual gifts dollar for dollar, thus doubling the impact of certain donations. 

Additionally, numerous student groups will host donation stations across the campus, where they will collect donations and celebrate Day of Giving and the impact it has on fellow students.

For more information, visit uca.edu/dayofgiving or call 501.852.2743.