UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — On Dec. 2, Penn Staters across the globe united for the University’s 11th annual GivingTuesday event, contributing $1,504,264.24, with 8,591 donors making 10,540 gifts in support of scholarship, research and student-driven priorities across all campuses.
The celebration of philanthropy drew support from across the nation and around the world, with gifts coming from 50 states plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. A total of 14 countries were also represented, underscoring the broad reach and dedication of the Penn State community.
“Our community continues to show what is possible when we rally together,” said Greta Hall, director of annual giving. “From students to alumni to friends around the world, this day is about lifting one another up so that every member of the Penn State family can thrive.”
Top-performing campaigns showcased donor passion for a wide range of Penn State programs:
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Largest campaign by dollars raised: Penn State Dickinson Law - $69,335.90
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Second largest campaign by dollars raised: Penn State Glee Club - $66,718.60
Top three campaigns by number of gifts:
- #1: The Penn State Blue Band — 277 gifts
- #2: Schreyer Honors College Emergency Scholarship Fund — 206 gifts
- #3: The Penn State Alumni Association-Blue & White Society — 186 gifts
This year’s event saw meaningful engagement among students, including 796 student donors and strong momentum from a record number of student-led fundraising efforts. In total, student campaigns inspired $51,711.60 in support and generated 813 gifts, demonstrating the impact of student philanthropy and peer advocacy.
A total of 3,938 gifts of $25 or less underscored the broad participation and collective impact made possible by donors at every level. Additionally, 1,645 new donors chose GivingTuesday to make their first gift to Penn State, joining a global philanthropic community united in support of access, opportunity and excellence. Community members can visit the event webpage through the end of December to see how their favorite campaigns performed.
“Year-round, there are so many reasons for our University community to feel proud,” said Hall. “The generosity displayed during this year’s GivingTuesday is at the top of the list for me.”
Gifts made on GivingTuesday at Penn State advance the University’s historic land-grant mission to serve and lead: they help students prepare for lifelong success; fuel research, outreach and economic development that strengthen communities; and expand Penn State’s impact across Pennsylvania and the world. Learn more by visiting raise.psu.edu.