The University of Tennessee hosted a successful Big Orange Give on November 18th, thanks to the Volunteer Community’s donations. With the help of challenge gifts and donation matching, many colleges and campus units surpassed their goals, raising over $2.5 million in 24 hours.
The Center of Global Engagement received a record number of donations, with over 70 new donors for this year’s fundraiser. The generous donations to CGE will be used to create more international opportunities and make a great impact on global learning.
“Students often find experiencing a new culture, food, and ways of life exhilarating, but the financial cost can be intimidating. In fact, it’s often the top reason students don’t consider going abroad.” Said Mark Clark, Director of Development for the UT Foundation. “We’re so grateful to have had two very generous challenge gifts during Big Orange Give, which will not only help several students fulfill their dreams of studying abroad but also help us draw more donors to the cause, in turn allowing us to support more students’ ambitions.”
Two donations this year in the total amount of $35,000 were given to the Academy for Global Scholars (AGS). This is a program that provides first-year students with a unique opportunity for global engagement and individual growth.
“The Center for Global Engagement is incredibly proud of the Academy for Global Scholars initiative, and as co-coordinator of the program, I have seen first-hand the impact AGS has had on the students involved.” Said Annastasia Williams, Programs Abroad Coordinator.
Participants join AGS by invitation and engage as a cohort in FYS 101 and a general education course, cultural programming, service activities, and a study abroad experience.
“Our students have formed a dynamic community while actively exploring what it means to be an engaged global citizen. We believe that this program has and will continue to greatly shape and expand the Vol experience for AGS students.” Williams added.
“We appreciate everyone who donated this year and previously.” Said Rachel Rui, Communications Director at the Center for Global Engagement. “These donations are instrumental to our mission to bring our students to the world, and bring the world to Tennessee.” Big Orange Give benefits dozens of departments and organizations on campus. To learn more about the university’s annual day of giving – click here.