Cumberlands announces second annual Give Day

Beginning at midnight on March 19, University of the Cumberlands will host its second annual Cumberlands Give Day.

For 24 hours, alumni and friends of the University will have the chance to support programs like scholarship funds, athletic teams, fine arts programs, ministries, and other opportunities that Cumberlands offers its students. More details can be found at ucumberlands.edu/giveday.

Universities around the nation have adopted this concept of an annual Give Day in which departments across the campuses combine their efforts into one 24-hour online fundraiser. Cumberlands hosted its first Give Day last year, which raised $102,612, far exceeding the school’s expectations.

“Last year was remarkable in every sense of the word,” said Bill Stohlmann, Director of the University’s Office of Development. “We are extremely thankful to everyone who helped make our first Give Day a huge success. Those donations have already made a significant impact on our student’s lives. We are excited to see what this year will bring!”

Every department at Cumberlands is in some way indebted to the generosity of donors. Staff at the University have begun hosting miniature events on campus to raise awareness among the student body about the opportunities they have which are only made possible because of donors’ philanthropy.

“It can be mind-boggling to realize that a complete stranger is actually changing your life through their donations,” said Courtney Bidwell, donor relations coordinator at Cumberlands. “Some students who could never have afforded college are able to enroll here solely because Cumberlands has scholarships from donors that fit their situation. Some students have work-study positions funded by donors that have changed their career aspirations. Honestly, our donors’ impact is endless, and we can’t thank them enough for their support.”

Last year, donors gave to more than 60 programs. Cumberlands posted fundraising challenges throughout the day to alumni and friends, adding some friendly competitive spirit. The University plans on posting similar challenges this year.