Feeling the love: Student Ambassadors Allison Edwards ’25 and Lanie Carleton ’25 demonstrating their appreciation for donors at this year's Giving Tuesday / Photo by: Bryan Navarro
Surpassing Goal, Giving Tuesday Connects Alumni, Parents, and Donors to Campus
With $277,720 from 1,157 donors, Giving Tuesday 2024 was a resounding success. Above all, President Roger Thompson notes, the generosity demonstrates the Gael community’s “enduring love for Saint Mary’s.”
Saint Mary’s College celebrated an exceptional Giving Tuesday this year, raising an impressive $277,720 from 1,157 donors. The collective efforts of alumni, students, faculty, staff, and campus partners made the day a resounding success, exceeding the $200,000 goal.
“The enthusiasm and generosity shown by the Saint Mary’s community was heartwarming,” says Michele Johnson, Executive Director of Annual Giving. “We’re especially grateful for the participation of our campus partners, who helped make this year’s Giving Tuesday one of our most successful yet.”
Expanding partnerships across the College, 25 offices and departments launched second-level campaigns under the larger Giving Tuesday umbrella. Saint Mary’s is laying the groundwork for years to come, says Johnson. “With consistent efforts each year, we will continue to grow our advocacy pool and, in turn, our donor pool.”
The Division of Student Life celebrated a banner year, surpassing its donor goal by 38%—a testament to the value the SMC community places on its students, says Jim Sciuto ’00, EdD ’22, Vice President of Student Life. “Student Life is deeply grateful to our donors for supporting programs that directly impact the lives of our students and ensure they have resources and opportunities for lasting memories.”
President Roger Thompson applauded the dedication of everyone who contributed to this year’s campaign. “The strong showing from our community demonstrates their enduring love for Saint Mary’s,” he said.
Just as important as the final dollar amount, Thompson noted, is the participation rate of the SMC community, especially alumni. “We’re proud of the progress we have made, but there is still more we can do. Let’s keep this momentum going and aim even higher!”
Looking ahead, Saint Mary’s College will again host its signature fundraising event, One Day One SMC, on March 12–13, 2025.
As the holiday season continues, University Advancement takes pride in Giving Tuesday’s success, its impact on the College, and looks forward to building on this achievement.
For those who missed their chance to give but still want to be counted, the Giving Tuesday page will remain open and supporters can still make their gift until 11:59 PM PT on December 10, 2024.
