Hampton University’s ‘Day of Giving’ Shatters Records

HAMPTON, Va. — A 24-hour call to give inspires thousands to dig deeply for THE Standard of Excellence that is Hampton University. The 2017 “Day of Giving” at the prestigious University sets a new record for a single day of fundraising. Donors from all walks of life underscored the value of the unparalleled educational experience offered at Hampton. The ‘One Hampton’ Day of Giving was the perfect time to highlight the month of Hampton’s founding and an ideal time to rally donors around the globe to support and celebrate the University’s stature in the world of higher education.

The love for Hampton runs deep. For some, there was no question that they had to give.  “Hampton University literally changed my life, and really the life of my family,” said Tyren Sutton, Hampton alumnus. “HU gave me confidence, told me I was somebody. In fact, they told me I was elite.”

Hampton set a new record for a single day of fundraising on the Day of Giving when 2002 donors gave more than $1.2 million to the University. The active influence of Hamptonians was on exhibit when all who cared deeply about Hampton showed their pride and generosity to their ‘Home by the Sea’.

“This show of support in real dollars is a testament to the respect and appreciation our institution of higher learning garners from our scenic shores in Hampton, across international waters and beyond,” said. Dr. William R. Harvey, Hampton University President for nearly 40 years.

This is the fourth year of a five-year effort at Hampton designed to harness the power of social media in driving the spirit of gift giving. The University reached its participation goal of 1,868 donors and received a bonus, leadership seven-figure gift as well. The goal of 1,868 donors reflects the year Hampton was founded. The primary driving force in this endeavor were countless volunteers and campaign advocates who spread the message through social media and personal emails, encouraging others to make their gifts. The emphasis was on leveraging giving rather than the size of the gift.

Donors were given several ways to make their gift throughout the day, including the online giving portal GiveCampus, the HU website and a 24-hour telethon. Those who were on campus, including students, faculty, staff and friends, were also given the opportunity to give on-site during a ‘One Hampton’ Giving Rally held at the University’s Student Center that lasted from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event featured a live DJ, student performances and student testimonials.

School-inspired giving challenges also took place at designated times throughout the day to encourage participation from key constituent groups.

The Day of Giving served as a platform for the University to stimulate fundraising across many sectors of donors.  In addition, it provided the opportunity for the University to expand its consistent effort of building a culture of community and philanthropy through social media. The University is currently in the quiet phase of a comprehensive capital campaign which has a goal of $150 million.  This new Day of Giving format has been a conditioning exercise to attune donors to give during the public phase of the capital campaign.

The University is most grateful to its donors and volunteers for forming the community that achieved this overwhelming success.