The Northern Michigan University community, including alumni and friends, will come together Thursday, March 19, for NMU Giving Day. The theme of this year's fundraising event is “Give to what you love, and rally your fellow Wildcats to do the same.” Participants are encouraged to support the causes that shaped their time at NMU, from academic departments and athletic teams to student organizations and campus programs.
“Teammates, clubmates, bandmates, lab partners and residence hall friends can all come together to amplify the impact,” said NMU Foundation organizers. “Throughout the day, participation challenges and matching opportunities will be announced as donors step forward to help unlock additional gifts. These matches are designed to multiply the impact of individual contributions and build momentum as the NMU community rallies in support of student opportunities.”
One highlight of the day will be the Lunch Power Hour, held from noon to 1 p.m. During this hour, donors will have the chance to help unlock $10,000 in additional support for Northern students. One donor who gives to an academic fund and one donor who gives to an athletic fund during the hour will be randomly selected. Each donor's chosen fund will receive an additional $5,000 to expand the impact of their gift.
For example, if a donor contributes to the Biology program during the hour and is selected, that fund would receive an additional $5,000. Similarly, a donor supporting an NMU athletic program during Power Hour could help secure the same boost for their team.
Gifts made on NMU Giving Day directly support the experiences that help make the university distinctive, from classroom learning and hands-on research to leadership programs and athletics.
Students say donor support plays a meaningful role in their education. Taryn Andersen, a senior environmental science major, said the Student Leader Fellowship Program has helped shape her leadership skills and build lasting connections.
“SLFP has been a learning opportunity on how to channel my leadership positively,” Andersen said. “I've been exposed to a variety of topics that expanded what I previously knew, and I've made great friendships and connections through the program.”
Robin Kisiel, a nursing student currently in her medical-surgical semester, said donations have enhanced the learning tools available to students in the nursing program.
“Your support has made a big difference in the quality of education I've been able to receive,” Kisiel said of donors. “Because of you, I've been able to practice with new supplies that help enhance my learning. Having these new materials has helped me build my confidence and keeps me motivated to keep improving.”
Organizers say the collective effort of the NMU community, no matter the size of the gift, helps expand opportunities for current and future Wildcats.
For more information about NMU Giving Day, including ways to participate and share the event with others, visit nmu.edu/givingday.