OU Giving Day is almost here—and this year’s day of generosity promises to be one of the most inspiring yet. On Feb. 11, everyone can come together to celebrate Oglethorpe by making a gift that means the most to them. 

“OU Giving Day reminds us just how special this community is,” said Sarah Emerson, vice president of advancement. “For one day, alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents, and friends all come together with one shared purpose, to invest in Oglethorpe’s future and in the students who make this place extraordinary. The energy around this year’s challenges is incredible, and I can’t wait to see what our community accomplishes together.” 

These are the challenges that will be available to show your support and increase your impact: 

• Faculty and staff will have the opportunity to participate in the Faculty & Staff Challenge. Once they raise $1,000 for any fund, a dedicated Class of ’72 alumnus and former faculty member will celebrate their spirit by giving $1,000 to The Oglethorpe Fund.  

• Across the alumni community, members of every graduating class are gearing up for a challenge of their own. The Alumni Board Challenge offers a powerful opportunity: when 150 alumni make a gift to any fund, the Alumni Board will unlock a $5,000 contribution to support the Career Development Office and unpaid and underpaid internship stipends.  

• There is also a Presidential Challenge. When the community raises $10,000, President McClymond will double the impact by making a generous $10,000 gift to The Oglethorpe Fund. 

OU Giving Day isn’t only about academics and general support — it’s also a chance to uplift student experiences across campus. 

• Supporters of student scholarships can participate in the Partin Family Scholarship Challenge. When donors unite to raise $10,000 for the Scholarship Support Fund, Cody Partin ’02 and his family will amplify that generosity with an additional $10,000 to help future Petrels access their education. 

• Fans and former student-athletes can look out for the Solomon “Petrel Power” Match. Once $10,000 is raised for the Stormy Petrels Booster Club, Jason Solomon ’01 and his wife, Loni, will contribute $10,000 — a huge boost for student-athletes who give their all every day. 

• For those who love the beauty and spirit of Oglethorpe’s campus, an opportunity awaits. A Class of 1966 alumnus has pledged to give $2 for every $1 donated to the Campus Beautification Fund, up to $15,000.  

“What’s so exciting about OU Giving Day is that participation truly matters,” Kathryn Henderson, assistant vice president of advancement, shared. “Every gift — large or small — adds momentum. Every donor helps unlock challenges and create real opportunities for students. OU Giving Day is about showing students that they have an entire community behind them.” 

As OU Giving Day approaches, know that this is more than a day of giving. It’s a day when every member of the Oglethorpe community can make a difference. Whether you give to support scholarships, athletics, beautification, Career Development or the Oglethorpe Fund, your gift matters, and it unlocks something bigger. 

Plan to make your gift and join in the festivities of OU Giving Day!