Hofstra’s first student-led Day of Giving Committee raises student advocacy as they partner with student clubs, fraternities, sororities and sports teams. // Photo courtesy of Hofstra University.
Hofstra University is home to over 200 student clubs. From sports and media to culture and entertainment, these clubs foster an enriching community. To ensure this community continues to thrive, Hofstra will host its annual Day of Giving celebration on Tuesday, Feb. 27.
The concept of the Day of Giving was inspired by the international trend of widespread days of giving such as Giving Tuesday. It creates the opportunity for institutions of higher education to formulate targeted support for their school communities.
According to Hope Montreuil, director for Annual Giving, “The Day of Giving at Hofstra has witnessed substantial growth over the years, leveraging crowdfunding technology and active promotion to engage alumni, staff, students and friends in supporting the university.”
The Day of Giving functions as a campus-wide campaign to garner support for university schools, programs and clubs. Its aim is also philanthropic support that enhances students’ educational experiences as they foster a sense of community with donors to contribute to supporting educational initiatives.
This year, the Student Government Association (SGA) has taken the initiative to increase student advocacy by forming a student-led Day of Giving Committee. “SGA put together a group of student leaders to brainstorm ways we could best engage student organizations,” said Lincoln Anniballi, SGA president. “We were able to make contact with over 100 organizations and provided resources to guide them in their fundraising efforts.”
“The students who raise the most are eligible for prizes from the alumni office,” Anniballi said. While most student groups are supported by the SGA, fundraising events, such as the Day of Giving, allow them to branch out and garner the necessary support to strengthen their own community.
Another aspect of the Day of Giving is the connections students form with alumni and the local community.
“Our biggest priorities go beyond just the dollar amount raised,” said Jacob Fremont, a senior public relations major and member of the Day of Giving Committee. [It] has the opportunity to really foster a new culture for Hofstra clubs that extends beyond graduation.”
For clubs new to the Day of Giving, Sydney Greenlaw, SGA comptroller, advises to “dive right in and don’t be afraid to reach out to people,” she said. “We’ve been brainstorming and creating ways to support and motivate student clubs and organizations through outreach.”
Students can look forward to a guided presentation to direct them on becoming advocates for their organizations and participating in numerous events and outreach forums.
“[The support of donors] directly impacts the quality of education, resources and opportunities available to students,” Montreuil said. Donors not only financially support student organizations but also become an integral part of the community by providing longstanding commitment, pride and connections to Hofstra.
“The collective impact becomes evident when many individuals come together to contribute and support the university,” Montreuil said
