Many University programs rely on fundraising during giving days to support their activities. The UD Marching Band received an outpouring of support, raising over $9,000, nearly three times more than last year. Their donors’ generosity will cover the meal and transportation costs to away games for their more than 300 members during the next football season.

“This support allows the University of Delaware Marching Band to continue growing, enhancing the member experience and providing students with meaningful opportunities both on and off the field,” said junior Kaylea Patterson, the Marching Band’s social media manager. “As we celebrate our 80th anniversary this year, we are especially grateful for everyone who has supported the Pride of Delaware throughout the years and helped shape the organization we are today.”

The Department of Physical Therapy also reached new heights while celebrating a milestone anniversary. More than 80 donors contributed over $12,000, and thanks to a matching gift challenge spearheaded by Bill Romani, Class of 1990, the department more than doubled its donations and number of donors compared to previous years. Engaging with more alumni was the department’s top priority, according to administrative specialist Brie Rivera, and the surge in participation was especially meaningful as the department celebrates its 50th anniversary.

“Many of the initiatives we are supporting by this fundraising effort are items requested by students that would not normally be covered by tuition expenses or department budgets,” Rivera said. “Donor participation builds momentum for the next 50 years and strengthens the programs and initiatives that matter most to our community. We hope that this new engagement effort sparks a renewed sense of giving back and a desire for continued philanthropy in the future with our alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the department.”

The Lerner Professional Success Initiative raised over $7,000 and unlocked $2,500 in challenge funds to help prepare students for thriving careers. Jill Gugino Pante, director of the Lerner Career Services Center, noted that donor support has an immediate impact, which includes providing students with networking opportunities and funding for professional attire.

“It ensures we have the resources to foster community, remove financial barriers for students, and maintain the infrastructure that keeps our mentoring connections seamless,” said Jill Gugino Pante, director of the Lerner Career Services Center. “A gift isn’t just a line item. It’s a suit for a first interview, a dinner where a student makes business connections and the technology that makes it sustainable. Thank you to our donors for providing the tangible tools our students need to transition from the classroom to the professional world.”

The Private Markets Club (PMC) will also use the funds it raised to help prepare students for their future careers. While the club participated in I Heart UD Giving Day several years ago, this was the first time any of the current executive board members were involved. Members rallied to raise over $10,000 from 131 donors, which will be used to expand hands-on learning experiences, networking opportunities and more.

“This will have a huge impact on PMC, as the funds will go towards club-specific merch, gifts for guest speakers, an end-of-year ceremony and future trips to New York City, where we will visit various firms,” said junior Alex Treppiedi. “Every donation big or small, will help the future generation of finance professionals.”

Check out this year’s results and learn more about the featured projects on the I Heart UD Giving Day web page.

If you missed I Heart UD Giving Day but still want to support your favorite UD causes, you can still make your gift today.