What defines a great college experience? On its surface, the answer is easy: the discovery and challenge of classroom experiences; the opportunity to travel or participate in research; maybe it’s the mentorship of a certain teacher. But for many, what truly marks a great college experience is when the worry of how to pay for it is taken out of the equation.
This is the driver for Giving Day 2020, the University of Maryland’s annual fundraising effort geared to support critical funds for its campus community. For the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, student scholarship is the priority—supporting general tuition assistance, travel scholarships and other funds that enhance and bolster a student’s Maryland experience. This year’s Giving Day set new records for the school, with 84 donors bringing in over $36,000, a 26% increase from 2019. With most gifts under $250, it drove home the power of Giving Day: every gift of every amount matters. The success was celebrated by MAPP’s Board of Visitors, who matched $5,000 to scholarships.
“Giving Day is truly an example strength in numbers,” said Don Linebaugh, Interim Dean of the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation. “Together as a community, we can provide the critical support, services and programming that make Maryland one of the best educational values in the country. We are so thankful for the alumni, faculty, staff and students who help us make that possible.”
While Giving Day comes just once a year, opportunities to support our students are evergreen. Become involved in the MAPP+D alumni club. Attend a school social event or lecture. Offer to mentor or provide a shadowing opportunity for a student. Consider the school in your annual charitable giving or estate planning. To explore these opportunities and more, contact Erica Anderson, Assistant Director of External Relations and Stewardship.