The 10th annual UB Giving Day, held April 17-18, raised more than $1.4 million, making it the third-highest sum raised in the event’s decadelong history.

Approximately 20% of all UB donors who make gifts in any given year come in during this annual fundraising event, showing their pride by making gifts to departments, units and causes that are important to them.

The entire university community is encouraged to take part in UB Giving Day; fueled by UB leadership, including President Satish K. Tripathi and deans, vice presidents and volunteer board members, numerous challenges and matches help create friendly competition and increase the number of donors and dollars.

“We are grateful to leadership and dedicated donors for spearheading challenges and matches that energized our community and spurred giving to new heights,” says Kathleen Heckman, interim vice president for university advancement. “Their example and commitment have been instrumental in once again making this Giving Day a resounding success.”

UB Giving Day also involved the student community to instill a sense of the value of philanthropy and the impact it makes on their UB experience. “It’s important, especially at our 10th anniversary, to reinforce the reason for UB Giving Day,” Heckman notes. “We’ve built a solid foundation, not only of literal fundraising, but also of expanding awareness about the importance of philanthropy. Every year we garner first-time donors on UB Giving Day, so we know our message is resonating, which makes the benefit to students even greater.”

Other elements add fun to UB Giving Day, including a scavenger hunt held in collaboration with Student Life. UB students competed to find hidden plush buffalos hidden throughout the North and South campuses; selfies from triumphant students with their buffalo were posted on social media, furthering the message of UB Giving Day.

“Once again, UB Giving Day was a success, proving the unwavering dedication of the UB community,” Heckman says.