Giving Tuesday contributions increase 33 percent over last year
The Giving Tuesday goal was to raise $13,000 to upgrade the aging computers in WCU's Student-Athlete Academic Support Services Computer Lab, and the total raised for the upgrade was almost $15,000.
Donors contributed nearly $190,000 to Western Carolina University during 2018’s Giving Tuesday on Nov. 27, surpassing last year’s total dollars given.
“Once again, loyal supporters of Western Carolina University helped kick off the season of generosity on Giving Tuesday,” said Lori Lewis, WCU vice chancellor for advancement.
The annual day of giving was established seven years ago in response to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Contributions from 256 donors accounted for the $189,440 and helped boost the “Lead the Way” campaign to $55,130,785.
“In addition to the two special projects we promoted — the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band’s trip to next year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and outfitting the Student-Athlete Academic Support Services Computer Lab – our generous donors also supported student scholarships and academic programs,” Lewis said. “With a 33 percent increase in total dollars over last year, we are most grateful for this show of support for our amazing students.”
The breakdown is as follows:
- $14,885 for student-athlete computer lab (the goal was $13,000)
- $9,027 for Pride of the Mountains trip to Macy's parade
- $143,640 for scholarships
- $21,888 for academic programs
WCU’s philanthropic campaign, “Lead the Way: A Campaign Inspired by The Belcher Years,” includes a goal of $60 million and will conclude spring 2019. For more information, visit the website LeadTheWay.wcu.edu.
