Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) celebrated its most successful Day of Giving yet, raising a record-breaking $165,685 during its sixth annual event on Thursday, September 19. The University exceeded its ambitious goals of securing 500 donors and receiving contributions from all 50 states. 

A total of 580 donors from across the U.S. and three additional countries rallied to support key areas such as scholarships, athletics, program enhancements, campus facilities, and student leadership. This year’s Day of Giving marked a 32 percent increase in donors, a 40 percent jump in total gifts, and a 50 percent increase in dollars raised compared to last year.

“The Georgia Southwestern family is special,” said Stephen Snyder, executive director of the GSW Foundation and assistant vice president for Advancement. “Their increasing engagement in the Day of Giving each year speaks volumes about their dedication. This year, we surpassed previous milestones by raising more funds, securing more donors, and welcoming even more local business partners. Our donors, volunteers, faculty and staff truly make this a wonderful day for the University and the Americus community.” 

One of the day’s standout achievements was turning the map gold as GSW successfully gained donors from all 50 states—a long-standing goal of the event. This was the fourth attempt to "turn the map gold," a fun and engaging challenge that motivates the GSW community to reach family and friends across the country to participate. The initiative, aimed at boosting donor participation, helped make this year's event a true nationwide success.

“I was truly energized by the passion and enthusiasm I witnessed on my first Day of Giving,” said GSW President Michele Johnston, Ph.D. “The overwhelming support and generosity from the Hurricane family, spanning across the nation, helped us achieve our most successful year to date! It fills me with pride to see the Hurricane family unite in making a profound impact on our students and shaping the future of Georgia Southwestern.” 

In addition to online donations, Day of Giving supporters showed their Hurricane pride by dining and shopping at the participating local businesses - all who donated a portion of their sales throughout the day to the campaign.

The Day of Giving Committee expresses appreciation to 1800, 2 Duke’s BBQ, The Alley, Booger Bottom, Carter’s Fried Chicken, Chick-fil-A Americus, Gyro City Mediterranean Grill, Horne Pecan Company, La Hacienda, Little Brother’s Bistro & Café, Monroe’s Hotdogs, Pat’s Place, Roman Oven Pizzeria, Rosemary & Thyme, Scoops Americus, Southfitters, The Spot, The Station, The Sweet Spot, Sweet Georgia Bakery & Café, The Fish House, The Sheppard House, and Wolf Creek Plantation for their generosity.

Day of Giving Committee members included Chelsea Collins, Kim Comer, Signe Coombs, Hunter Peak, Kearston Holtzclaw, Krystal Morris, Sydney Scott, Angela Smith, Stephen Snyder, and Tracy Taylor.

 Visit www.gsw.edu/dayofgiving for more information.