Our alumni and friends seem to raise the bar higher and higher each year, whether through academic achievements, professional development or representing Mountaineer values in their communities. Last month, the spirit of Mountaineer Nation was on full display during the WVU Day of Giving! Thanks to the incredible generosity of alumni and friends like you, we surpassed previous records by raising an outstanding $274,444 from a record-breaking 831 gifts. This remarkable achievement is a testament to our community's collective power and our support for our beloved West Virginia University.
The impact of these funds will be substantial, touching the lives of current and future Mountaineers and alumni across the globe. Your contributions will provide vital scholarship support, enrich innovative alumni programming, and ensure future generations have the necessary resources to thrive at WVU and beyond. We extend our gratitude to all who contributed their time and treasure on the WVU Day of Giving; your generosity embodies the mission of our organization.
Not only was it a record-breaking day for the Alumni Association, but also for the entire University. Collectively, our supporters raised an astonishing $30,401,624 from 8,506 gifts - both all-time highs. Achieving these remarkable numbers wouldn’t have been possible without exceptional individuals leading the charge, both in the forefront and behind the scenes. Our chapter leaders and their members deserve special recognition for their tireless efforts in ensuring the success of their fundraising initiatives. A special congratulations to our Fort Myers, Emerald Coast and Peach State chapters for crossing the mark of $10,000 raised! The momentum our chapters experience on WVU Day of Giving continues to grow year after year.
However, the momentum doesn't stop there. I urge you to carry the spirit of giving into the WVU Day of Service on April 20! This presents a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow alumni in your local chapter and dedicate your time to valuable causes in your community. Whether lending a hand at an animal shelter, participating in a park cleanup, or tackling another initiative close to your heart, the WVU Day of Service provides an avenue to create a tangible impact while rekindling the Mountaineer spirit within you.
For those in areas without a local alumni chapter, consider empowering the next generation of Mountaineers by becoming a coach through WVU's Project 168. This initiative pairs current students with alumni mentors who offer invaluable guidance and support throughout their academic journey. As a coach, you will have the opportunity to meet individually or in groups with students throughout the semester via email, Zoom, or in person. Project 168 fosters a distinct mentorship experience that not only benefits the students, but also enriches you as the coach. To learn more and become a coach, visit the Project 168 website.
I am incredibly grateful for your ongoing support and dedication to West Virginia University. To stay connected with the Alumni Association, its initiatives, and fellow Mountaineers, please consider becoming a member if you haven’t already. Your membership strengthens our mission and allows us to continue serving WVU and its students in significant and meaningful ways.
Let's Go!
Kevin Berry ('94, '95)
WVU Vice President of Alumni Relations
CEO of the WVU Alumni Association, Inc.