Supporters of West Virginia University donated a record $46.2 million Wednesday (March 26) during the University’s eighth Day of Giving. More than 10,300 gifts were made during the 24‐hour online fundraising event held across the University system, also a record. The $46.2 million figure tops 2024’s WVU Day of Giving record of $30.4 million raised from over 8,500 gifts.

“I am humbled to see the tremendous generosity and support for West Virginia University year after year during the Day of Giving,” WVU President Gordon Gee said. “That support is an essential component that allows the University to make a difference in the lives of people in West Virginia and the world.”

This year’s theme — “Go above. Go beyond.” — emphasized the critical importance of private donations to WVU, especially for scholarships, and the need for new donors.

More than 1,300 of those making gifts Wednesday self-identified as first-time donors.

Among the larger gifts received on Day of Giving: a $2.15 million commitment from Terry Stockman that benefits the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, the John Chambers College of Business and Economics and the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources; a $750,000 donation from Roger O’Dell to WVU Institute of Technology at Beckley; and a $279,000 gift from Nemacolin also to WVU Tech.

Hourly challenges and participation gifts at the college/school/unit level created a WVU-spirited environment on social media throughout the day.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who participated in Day of Giving, helping us build excitement and provide much-needed funding to WVU,” said Kristen Shipp, executive director of annual giving for the Foundation and leader of the Day of Giving efforts. “Having so many supporters come together like this on one day is a testament to the loyalty and generosity of Mountaineer Nation. We are thrilled that our students, faculty, staff, friends and patients will benefit now and for many years to come.”

First launched in 2017, WVU Day of Giving is focused each year on raising private dollars for the University’s greatest priorities and opportunities, including scholarships and unrestricted funds at both the University- and unit-specific levels. The event also included WVU Health Sciences, WVU Medicine and regional campuses in Keyser and Beckley.

The Foundation and University used email and social media to spread the word to alumni and supporters about the special Day of Giving. An online donation page was set up at dayofgiving.wvu.edu as an easy way for people to make a gift online.

In total, WVU Day of Giving has raised over $142 million from more than 46,000 gifts in eight years, benefiting student programs, scholarships, research, infrastructure improvements and more.