Show-Me State Times

University of Missouri Advancement officials revealed that a total of 2,175 gifts were contributed during the recent Mizzou Giving Day, resulting in a grand total of $12,710,667 raised. The event, which spanned from noon Wednesday, March 13, through noon Thursday, March 14, is aimed at encouraging individuals and groups to show their support for MU through various giving opportunities.

Vice Chancellor for Advancement, Jackie Lewis, expressed gratitude towards the donors, stating, “We’re grateful to Tigers around the world for their tremendous generosity this Mizzou Giving Day.” Lewis emphasized the impact of the donations in supporting student success, research advancements, and program enhancements, highlighting the significance of the community's involvement in helping the university serve its students and the greater community.

Among the highlights of this year's campaign were the competitions and corresponding gift opportunities designed to motivate giving. Mizzou Giving Day Ambassadors engaged in a friendly competition to secure spots on the leaderboard by encouraging their networks to contribute to MU funds using personalized fundraising links. One standout ambassador, Kim Voss, who won the ambassador challenge with 93 gifts in support of the Franklin County Chapter of the Mizzou Alumni Association, spoke about the importance of these donations in fueling the Mizzou Alumni Association Scholarship Challenge.

The Bates County Mizzou Club, despite being Mizzou's smallest alumni chapter, managed to rally an impressive 105 donors to their cause, showcasing the dedication and support from various alumni chapters. Additionally, social media played a significant role in engaging donors, with a signature challenge on Facebook that saw participants voting for areas of campus to receive bonus funds based on photo reactions.

Furthermore, donors participated in creating matches and challenges to inspire support for key areas across Mizzou, including the Children’s Hospital, the Chancellor’s Fund for Excellence, and the College of Engineering. The involvement of alumni and friends in the texting campaign on Giving Day allowed for the sharing of meaningful Mizzou memories and experiences, reinforcing the strong bond and connection individuals have with the university.

In response to the overwhelming support received, President of the University of Missouri, Mun Choi, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We want to thank every Tiger who contributed to this year’s Mizzou Giving Day.” Choi emphasized the generosity of the community in backing student success, impactful research, meaningful engagement, and the university's championship goals, all of which have a lasting impact on the community and its stakeholders.