SDSU Community Drives 'Day of Giving' Record-Setting Success

This year’s Day of Giving — held the day after SDSU kicked off its 125th anniversary celebration — raised over $685,500 from more than 2,460 donors, setting records in both categories for the single-day fundraiser.  

The annual fundraiser is devoted to supporting student resources with the help of the university’s network of alumni, students and families, staff, and faculty.  

“There’s nothing like the response that we get from people knowing that they’re helping us out on this special day,” said Jen Stanley, director of development for Student Affairs and Campus Diversity.

With more than 70 entities in need of support and awareness, the Day of Giving team developed a website offering in-depth information about the many programs and organizations. Visitors will also find multimedia presentations, video storytelling, social media campaigns, and an interactive map showing the geographical origin of the donations.

Stanley points out a growing surge of support for the university’s equity and inclusion initiative, a strategic priority for SDSU.

“We are continuing to make an impact, we’re developing our community in a deeper and more meaningful way,” said Stanley. “The efforts of our campus diversity team are ensuring our campus community comes together as one — and that diversity, equity, and inclusion are included in everything we do.”

Brianna Bennett (’10) elected to give to the Afrikan Student Union (ASU) and the Black Student Science Organization (BSSO). As a student, Bennett recalls the need to extend access and opportunities for students of color. 
“They helped foster who I am today,” said Bennett.   

During Bennett’s senior year at El Camino High School in Oceanside, CA, she attended the Afrikan Student Union Annual High School Conference, which resulted in her choosing to become an Aztec. While at SDSU, she was part of the ASU, BSSO, and she organized various outreach events and activities aimed at increasing Black representation at SDSU.

“I know that resources create programs, they make changes,” said Bennett. “It’s important to me that I put my resources towards things that I want to see changed or where I know change could be.”

Stanley said Bennett’s generosity is what defines the mission of Day of Giving and the support for SDSU’s strategy on inclusion.   

“It shows that the powerful message is getting out to our community showing how we’re doing a better job supporting our students,” said Stanley.

That student-focus is important to Zack Albrecht (’17), who leads the Day of Giving.  

“Our students are high achievers … imagine what they could do with just a little bit more access to more resources, more initiatives and more programming,” said Albrecht, associate director of communications and fundraising in the University Relations and Development division.  

He said, “What I try to make sure is carried throughout Day of Giving is a sense of hope.”   

Did you miss your chance to donate during the Day of Giving? Check out SDSU Alumni Crowdfunding for more opportunities to support SDSU.