University of Central Florida: Giving Tuesday 2022 Raises $475K to Help Unleash Potential, Support Student Success
Over the past 9 years, UCF has participated in Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity that celebrates philanthropy, volunteerism and community service to highlight the powerful difference people can make when they come together to help others.
On Nov. 29, Knight Nation came together and raised more than $475,000.
UCF is committed to making a better future for its students and society; Giving Tuesday donors help by funding a wide range of areas that support student success, social mobility and innovative research. Donor support not only unlocks potential, inspires excellence and expands access to higher education, but helps to create a better world for all.
“Philanthropy is what brings the UCF community together and none of that would be possible without [donor] support,” says Daniella Lopez, UCF student body president. “On behalf of the entire student body, thank you for your continued support and your generosity.”
Some of the popular areas that received support on Giving Tuesday were First Generation Scholarship Fund, ChargeOn Fund, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS Mental Health Fund), Cheerleading and Area of Greatest Need.
FAIRWINDS Credit Union gave a $125,000 gift to name The EXCHANGE, the hub for ideas and educational activities in the College of Business that expands learning by connecting students with thought leaders, employers, faculty members and fellow students. Other notable gifts to the College of Business included support from Mark Plaumann ’74 ’79 and Marilyn Wilson for their named first-generation endowed scholarship, and Jessica ’80 and Kenneth Blume for endowing a scholarship for integrated business solutions.
The impact of Giving Tuesday often goes beyond dollars raised. “Having someone willing to invest in you is often the best incentive to invest in yourself,” says Theresa Kieu ’21. “Support from generous donors helped me earn a UCF degree without incurring debt, but also reminded me that there were people rooting for me.”