The University of Arkansas at Little Rock community came together to show their love of the university and raised more than $18,000 during UA Little Rock’s second annual Giving Day on March 19.

During the 24-hour fundraising event, more than 140 individuals from 11 states showed their support for a variety of initiatives to raise a total of $18,497.

”UA Little Rock’s mission to provide a quality, affordable education to our students is made possible by the generous support received from our donors,” said Christian O’Neal, vice chancellor for university advancement. “Thank you for making Giving Day 2020 a success!”

Donors took to social media to share personalized messages about what UA Little Rock means to them and why giving is important.

“I realize the value that my UA Little Rock education has had on my career and life and wanted to support students in their pursuit of a quality UA Little Rock education,” said Charles O. Steward, the 1987 recipient of the UA Little Rock Presidents Award.

All funds raised will support many areas at the university and have a huge impact on the students and the community.

“Giving Day is an important avenue to make sure that UA Little Rock is able to continue providing meaningful, innovative education and opportunities to our students,” said Dr. Angela Hunter, interim associate vice chancellor and associate professor in the Department of English. “That’s why I chose to give to the UA Little Rock Annual Fund to help implement micro-grants for students, the Trojan Food Pantry, and the Mobile Summer Institute on Scientific Teaching, a great program that helps faculty increase student success through techniques like active learning.”

University members offered their support to a wide variety of causes. UA Little Rock Bands, which includes the Trojan Pep Band and Department of Music ensembles, received the highest amount of donations during Giving Day with $3,336 raised from 28 donors.

The UA Little Rock family also took it upon themselves to support students during the COVID-19 pandemic. An anonymous donor pledged to match $5,000 to support the greatest needs of UA Little Rock students through micro-grants to help students dealing with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 26 donors took up the call and donated $1,865, the second highest amount raised for the day.

“I am truly in awe at the level of support received from alumni, faculty, staff, friends, and students on Giving Day,” said Samantha Wiley, assistant director of development. “In the midst of a pandemic, the UA Little Rock family has seized the opportunity to show their support for students and their continued success.”