It was a celebration 150 years in the making, and it didn’t disappoint.
On March 6, SIU’s alumni and friends gathered to honor the university during the third annual Day of Giving. Together, more than $900,000 was raised on a day marked by fun and philanthropy. As of press time, the official numbers were still being finalized.
In the Morris Library rotunda, dozens of Salukis and supporters enjoyed a surprise gift. An oversized gift box was opened, unveiling a surprise theater performance by Grey Dawg and students from the SIU theater department. Interim Chancellor John Dunn gave remarks and Mayor Mike Henry presented SIU with a city proclamation for the SIU Day of Giving. The event was capped off with birthday cake.
“It was a wonderful day to be a Saluki.”
Around campus, revelers interacted with fundraisers and university officials at Day of Giving booths at the library and the Student Center. There was also a mosaic wall, where individuals were able to add their selfies to create a collage image of a saluki.
“The day was a great success,” said Matt McCoy, the SIU Foundation’s director of constituent relations. “There was a festive atmosphere. It was a wonderful day to be a Saluki.”
Most of the giving was done online, but the spirit of the day was evident during the on-campus events. Search for #SIUDay on social media to see pictures and posts from the day.
Updated totals and full breakdown of donations can be found at siuday.siu.edu. View press release “SIU Carbondale Day of Giving totals exceed $889,000“.