Support for second annual Giving Day pushes Energize past $1-billion milestone

The University of Calgary’s second annual Giving Day on April 26 was a record-breaking 24-hour fundraiser that cast a high-voltage spotlight on the ongoing Energize campaign. This year, the event drew more than 1,350 gifts from 1,241 alumni and friends. That’s not only a remarkable high watermark for philanthropic gifts received in a single day, but the resulting total — more than $950,000 — brought the $1.3-billion campaign to a major milestone. 

“Significant philanthropic investments have helped propel us to this important point in the campaign, but it was support for Giving Day that took the university over the billion-dollar threshold,” says Nuvyn Peters, vice-president of Development and Alumni Engagement. Gifts made on Giving Day — more than 40 per cent of which came from UCalgary faculty and staff— will support a variety of programs and projects that enhance the student experience, from scholarships and bursaries, to mental health and wellness.   

“This campus is home to ambitious pioneers and philanthropists who give generously to support our community,” says Peters. “It is inspiring to see the outpouring of support and commitment to this campaign.”

Since the campaign’s public launch in 2016 (after a five-year quiet phase), more than 25,000 donors have contributed generously to initiatives that elevate the student experience, support research and transformational learning, and deepen our connection to the community. 

“For an institution just over 50 years old, crossing a billion-dollar milestone is an extraordinary demonstration of support from the community. This achievement has a direct impact on the reputation and stature of the University of Calgary,” says President and Vice-Chancellor Elizabeth Cannon.

While hitting $1 billion is reason to celebrate, it’s the heart and intention behind each gift that fuels lasting, meaningful change on campus and in the community, says Peters. “Every gift tells a story, and every story demonstrates the palpable passion and commitment on campus,” she says.

Every milestone, Peters says, is not only an opportunity to look back at the positive impact philanthropy has on teaching, learning and research, but it’s also a chance to celebrate the university’s philanthropic family as we head into the home stretch of the campaign.

“This campaign is proof of how engaged our community is, and how much they care,” says Peters. “It’s a vehicle for cultivating authentic relationships, and for leading and inspiring one another to make a difference in the world around us. That’s a remarkable thing to celebrate.”

UCalgary’s $1.3 billion Energize campaign is fueling transformational change for the University of Calgary, our city, and beyond — inspiring discovery, creativity and innovation for generations to come.