The University of Delaware community came together to support projects led by students, faculty and alumni for 2022’s  GivingTuesday, the global day of giving held on Nov. 29. 

More than 1,900 alumni, friends, faculty, staff, parents and students made a collective impact by contributing nearly $214,000 to more than 60 fundraising projects and other UD causes. The projects ranged from research funds and internship programs to travel support for UD athletics. Many of the projects are still available on HenFunder, the University’s crowdfunding platform, which gives donors another way to directly support their passion. 

“GivingTuesday was a celebration of unity and generosity across the University community,” said Jim Dicker, vice president of development and alumni relations. “We are honored that donors took the time to support areas at UD they care about most. Every gift — whether it be $50 or $5,000 — made a difference for our students and faculty.”

Projects that met or exceeded goals include the Hydroponics Club’s fundraiser to install hydroponic towers in UD dining halls to grow fresh, sustainable produce. The project raised $2,905 from 31 donors, surpassing the club’s goal of $2,500. Founded in the spring of 2022 by students in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the newly registered student organization participated in GivingTuesday for the first time. 

"We knew that GivingTuesday would be an opportunity to expand our club’s community engagement capabilities. By bringing hydroponics to UD’s Dining Halls, we are exposing all students to the future of food,” said Evyn Appel, president of UD Hydroponics Club and Honors College student. “Thanks to the generous support of the UD community, our idea will become reality."

Among the cornerstones of GivingTuesday was the Blue Hen Strong Fund. Launched in 2020 to meet UD student needs arising from the coronavirus pandemic, it has since become an evergreen source of support for evolving student priorities. A recent UDaily story highlighted how the fund supports new initiatives, including a First-Generation Mentoring Program and Basic Needs Pantry.

While GivingTuesday is a global day of giving, UD holds its own annual giving day each year – I Heart UD Giving Day. Save the date for this year's largest annual day of giving on May 3, 2023.