The University of Mount Olive’s sixth annual Giving Day will go in the books as the most successful fundraising event of its kind in UMO history.

More than 430 donors collectively gave nearly $204,000 to support various areas of the university.

“This more than doubled last year’s total, and donations are still coming in,” said an excited UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom. “I am so proud of the way our community of supporters rallied behind us for this special day of giving. It is a testament to the fact that they see the great things we are doing, the wonderful education we are providing, and the lives we are transforming, and they want to be part of continuing that success.

Heading into the Annual Day of Giving, the university had set a goal of $100,000, a little more than a 10 percent increase over the previous year’s final tally. Throughout the day, faculty, staff, and students dropped by the Giving Day headquarters to make their contributions, sign thank you cards, and have their photo taken to share their pledge of support on social media. Those who could not be present physically gave online.

“It was an exciting day for everyone,” said Dwayne McKay, Director of External Affairs. “To see so many alumni and friends of the University step up and contribute was both energizing and affirming.”

“When our online calculator jumped to $200,000, I nearly came out of my seat,” said Assistant Director of Stewardship and Donor Relations Jessica Sellers.

A pivotal part of Giving Day included several matching gifts and challenges. “We surpassed our number of donors by more than 80, effectively unlocking an anonymous challenge gift of $7500,” said Sellers. “Another anonymous donor pledged $10,000 if we had 25 new, first-time donors. We unlocked that challenge early in the day,” Sellers beamed.

Croom made good on his pledge of $7,500 for garnering board participation, as did former Vice President for Enrollment Dr. Barbara Kornegay who pledged $5,000 in honor of the class with the greatest amount of donations. That recognition honored the class of 2018.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support shown by our entire community of UMO Trojan benefactors,” said Croom. “The individual and collective philanthropic effort of this day is a symbol of support for the vision and direction of our University. We are very thankful for everyone who invests in our students, our programs, and the transformative power of UMO!”

Individuals who missed the 24-hours event, but would still like to contribute can do so by going to www.umo.edu/giving-day. For a recap of the day, go to https://vimeo.com/815035381.

The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University is sponsored by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.