Augusta University announced on March 23 that its seventh annual Augusta Gives event raised $629,308 from more than 1,100 donors, marking the highest participation in the event’s history.
The record-setting fundraising effort highlights the strong support from students, alumni, faculty, staff and community partners for Augusta University’s mission. The funds will support a range of university initiatives and programs.
“Augusta Gives is about investing in a university that, in turn, invests deeply in its community,” said AU President Russell T. Keen. “The impact of Augusta University extends far beyond our campus. We are an economic engine that transforms the lives of our students and strengthens the region we proudly serve. Meaningful partnership with our community is not just part of our mission, but central to our identity.”
Jeff Snow, executive vice president of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement at Augusta University, said: “I am truly moved to see our community’s dedication to Augusta University in action. The excitement of our Augusta Gives power hours and student‑led events, combined with the unwavering support of our alumni, community partners, faculty and staff, showcases the very best of who we are and what we can accomplish in just one day. Your collective generosity fuels the life‑changing and life‑saving work happening every day at Augusta University. We are profoundly grateful for the remarkable impact you make possible.” Snow and his wife contributed a matching gift as part of this year’s campaign to encourage student giving.
Student participation was strong during this year’s event; more than 125 students made gifts through Homecoming Court coin wars or participated in lawn parties and power hours that helped secure bonus funding for key university initiatives. In total, 293 students donated—second only to faculty and staff (295), while alumni accounted for 288 donors.
A notable highlight came during Athletics Power Hour when 164 donors supported various athletic programs within AU Athletics—a surge recognized by Kadija Dickens: “Y’all are amazing!! From all of us in athletics, you killed it,” Dickens said. “Thank you so much for all of your hard work.” Additionally, donations were received from all 50 states plus Washington D.C., another first for Augusta Gives.
Kelly Schulte, director of Annual Giving at AU said: “The goal of Augusta Gives is participation, to engage the community…to give at any level…driving growth and impacting the future at and through Augusta University…it’s one day, one community, one powerful difference because of people who believe in our mission.”
