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GSW raises nearly $100,000 from 44 states on third annual Day of Giving

from Aeolian 2021

from Aeolian 2021, page 24

Alumni Scene

GSW’s third annual Day of Giving, which ran midnight to midnight on Thursday, September 16, doubled the initial goal of $50,000, netting a total of $99,925.50 for the University and surpassing last year’s amount by over 188%.

This year, the Hurricanes included an additional challenge during the 24-hour timeframe, attempting to gain donors from all fifty U.S. states and asking contributors to “turn the map gold.” The GSW community watched in anticipation throughout the day as each state turned gold when a gift was received. Alumni and friends from a whopping 44 states made gifts – an increase from only seven states the previous year.

**GSW staff from the Offices of First-Year Experience and Recruitment and Admissions enjoyed lunch at La Hacienda**

A total of 243 gifts rolled in from 44 states and three countries - Canada, Brazil and Belgium. Out of the 223 donors, 76 were first-time donors. This effort was made possible by contacting potential donors in advance, sharing promotions in the weeks leading up to the event, and tagging friends and family on social media on the Day of Giving.

Contributions were designated for scholarships, general support, athletics, facility improvements and many other areas.

**GSW soccer players and Lou Chase thanked patrons of Pat's Place**

Day of Giving Committee members included Lou Chase, Chelsea Collins, Kim Comer, Signe Coombs, Haley Hanniford, Hailey Henderson, Kearston Roland, Sydney Scott, Bob Slenker, Angela Smith, Stephen Snyder, Ashley Stallings and Qaijuan Willis.

**GSW faculty and staff from the School of Nursing enjoyed lunch at La Hacienda**

In addition to online donations, Day of Giving supporters showed their Hurricane pride by dining at participating local restaurants who generously donated a portion of their sales throughout the day to the campaign, including Carter’s Fried Chicken, Wolf Creek Plantation, Pat’s Place, 2 Duke’s BBQ, Wok N Wings, The Sheppard House, La Hacienda, Monroe’s Hotdogs, Gyro City Mediterranean Grill, Roman Oven Pizzeria, The Fish House, Floyd’s Pub, Rosemary & Thyme, Booger Bottom and Sweet Georgia Bakery and Café Campesino.

As another statement of support, Americus Mayor Barry Blount signed a proclamation on September 2 announcing Thursday, September 16, 2021 as the third annual Day of Giving, recognizing GSW as a vital asset to the community and economic growth.