The university’s second Giving Day took place on April 6 as alumni and friends across the country responded generously to help make the future affordable, meaningful, and — most of all — real for CU Denver’s students.

The proliferation of giving days in recent years among universities and other organizations is an indication of their power and popularity. While fundraising in higher education is often considered a marathon, giving days are more akin to a sprint toward a specific goal.

When CU Denver’s annual giving team launched the campus’s first Giving Day in March 2022, they knew it would take time for the approach to gain traction. The results of this year’s effort, with its theme of “Make it Real,” show that momentum is building, as alumni and friends across the country contributed more than $100,000 — triple the amount they donated in 2022. Their gifts will support programs and initiatives that drive student success in a variety of ways across the university.

“This campaign represents a powerful opportunity for our community to help support our students on their unique journeys and help make their dreams a reality,” said Vice Chancellor for Advancement Melisa Baldwin.

Giving Day donors could choose from 29 funds across the campus that supported scholarships, innovation, the student emergency fund, and mental health and wellness, just to name a few.

Several people who made gifts posted comments on the Giving Day website to share their enthusiasm in supporting causes close to their hearts.

“From one first generation student to others!” wrote Joanne Mayer

“I am proud to support our amazing Latinx students!” posted Regina Kilkenny

Many thanks to everyone who showed up for CU Denver and our students!