DU Community Gave More than $1.3 Million During 1DAY4DU
During this year’s 1DAY4DU, the University of Denver’s annual day of giving, more than 2,900 individuals made gifts totaling more than $1.3 million that will have a direct and immediate impact on our students and our community. With the number of donors and dollars exceeding last year’s numbers, the DU community demonstrated strong belief in the students, faculty, and programs represented in the crowdfunding initiative’s projects.
“DU’s research, teaching, and innovation are exceptional. The enthusiasm of our alumni, friends, faculty, staff, and parents during 1DAY4DU is an affirmation of that excellence,” says Chancellor Jeremy Haefner. “DU’s Board of Trustees and University-wide Alumni Council both had 100% participation in the event, setting an example of belief in our mission and in the projects across campus that were highlighted on the day. All the gifts during this event – no matter the size – are helping to shape our University’s future and our students’ 4D Experience.”
The crowdfunding projects highlighted during 1DAY4DU spanned many fields of study and student-focused initiatives. From worldwide mental health to athletics to professional development – impacting research, internships, student access, and more – the day of giving will have a positive impact here in Denver and around the world.
One of this year’s projects was the Daniels Professional Development Program Fund. The program provides individualized guidance to all undergraduate students in Daniels College of Business, complimenting learning inside the classroom by engaging in experiential-based activities. Donations to the Daniels Professional Development Program (DPDP) during 1Day4DU will support students as they explore majors and industries, prepare to apply to graduate school, create resumes and cover letters, maintain a personal brand and online image, practice for interviews, and negotiate offers.
“DPDP is a prime example of the Daniels Difference—career-focused education specifically designed to give our students the skills and competencies they need to launch and excel in their careers,” says Vivek Choudhury, dean of the Daniels College of Business. “I’m grateful that so many donors chose to support DPDP, recognizing the invaluable guidance it provides our undergrads.”
The Master of Arts in International Disaster Psychology program in DU’s Graduate School of Professional Psychology was another of this year’s 1DAY4DU projects. Gifts to the program will support trauma-informed delivery of mental health services and consultations all over the world. This summer, the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Hub will be piloting research and interventions to safeguard the health, wellbeing, and dignity of communities alongside partners in Sub Saharan Africa.
With 1DAY4DU contributions, DU’s Cultural Center has been able to open the Pride Closet as a resource for LGBTQ+ students. The Pride Closet opened in the winter quarter of 2023, and many students have appreciated the availability of free clothing to help them affirm their identity and to help them feel seen. Gifts will help grow and restock the closet, providing a meaningful resource to students.
DU Athletics set a record during 1DAY4DU, with $424,328 raised through the generosity of more than 350 donors. Matching gifts for each of the 18 varsity athletics programs helped bolster support, raising funds that will help build on DU’s 34 NCAA championship tradition. Donors’ generosity during 1DAY4DU will expand team travel, academic resources, leadership programming, team meals, equipment, enhanced care and treatment to prevent and heal sports-related injuries, and comprehensive well-being services.
“1DAY4DU serves as a powerful reminder of the difference we each make through giving,” says Valerie Otten, senior vice chancellor for Advancement. “During this day, donors invest in programs that hold meaning to them and that make a tangible difference for our students and our world. We are grateful for their partnership in making an impact.”