North Boston News

Giving Day is Back—Here’s How You Can Make a Difference

Small acts of kindness have big implications. And so do small acts of generosity. When it comes to Endicott, it’s that generosity from community members that helps the College reach students of greatest need, strengthen academic and student programming, attract top-tier speakers to campus, improve physical grounds, and beyond. Last year, the Endicott community came together for Giving Day and showed what’s possible when we unite in Gull pride—raising a record-breaking total of nearly $430,000 for the College. On March 1, Giving Day returns to the Nest with festivities in Upper and Lower Callahan, the Post Center, and the Center for Belonging that will ignite the school spirit of Gulls far and wide with snacks, giveaways and prizes, Endicott swag, and, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the Post Center, Gulls can put a pie in the face of coaches and student-athletes alike.  “Last year’s Giving Day exceeded all expectations,” noted President Steven R. DiSalvo, Ph.D. “We know our Gulls are committed and invested in the present and future of Endicott, and when they set their minds to something, they always see it through.” How does even $25 make a difference?This year, make a gift of $25 or more and receive a unique Giving Day t-shirt designed by Will Jennings ’17. But, remember, Giving Day isn’t about the amount of money given—it’s the level of participation that matters. That’s because generous donations will be “unlocked” if enough people contribute a gift of any amount. Last year, those unlocked gifts contributed to a $20,000 gift to the new Cummings School of Nursing & Health Sciences; funding for Gary the comfort dog; a revamp of the Winthrop Lawn; and over $16,000 in unrestricted funds that were used for the College’s most pressing, immediate needs.   Giving Day 2022 also helped raise $140,000 for Endicott Athletics—a 120% increase over the past record. “Since as far back as I can remember, Giving Day has been one of the most impactful fundraising days for each of our athletic programs. The generosity from alumni, families, current students, and friends of the College have inspired us all,” said Brian Wylie, Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics. “To me, no matter how large or small the gift, it’s a prime indicator of how many people, far and wide, truly believe in what athletics means at Endicott.” Since 2019, the Endicott community has given more than $1 million to the College—go Gulls! There are plenty of challenge funds at stake again this year. One of Giving Day’s most important challenges is the $60,000 Big Giving Day Challenge, sponsored by an anonymous donor and Trustee Joanna Schulman P’17. If each area of academics, athletics, Student Life, and Annual Fund reaches their individual participation/fundraising goals, Big Giving Day Challenge funds will be split across those four areas.Alumni-athletes can also compete again this year for extra funds for their team through the Forever a Gull Challenge. The top three varsity and top three club teams with the highest percentage of participation from their alumni will earn a portion of the $15,000 contributed by alumna and Trustee Sheila Walsh.Of course, you can support any area of the College with your gift, including athletics, Endicott’s Wellness Center, the Colin and Erika Angle Center for Entrepreneurship, and beyond.

The funding has greatly impacted student opportunities, noted Provost Sara Quay, who plans to support students participating in short-term study abroad trips as well as attending conferences. “This year, I’ve offered to support students’ research and conference attendance. So far, they’ve been supported to travel to IMEX America Future Leaders: Student Conference, the Sports Business Journal’s CAA World Congress of Sports and Esports Rising events, and an upcoming arts-based trip to NYC,” she said. What are other ways to give back? If you’re an alum, join a legion of spirited alumni, parents, and friends who comprise the Gull Ambassador Program—official promoters of Endicott’s goal to support the personal and professional development of our students, alumni, and the broader community. You’ll spread awareness about all things Endicott and ensure our initiatives have a positive impact wherever you go. Plus, stay connected through the Alumni Council; attend Reunion Weekend; become a class correspondent, internship site supervisor, or mentor in our Gull2Gull Mentoring Program; and if you’re a business owner in the Greater Boston/North Shore area, join the Alumni Business Referral Network. Learn more about these initiatives. And it’s always a good time to volunteer your time! When you’re of service to the community, you embody what it means to be a Gull and spread the Endicott spirit and ethos through your good deeds. View community service opportunities. Make your gift early and learn more about this year’s challenges.

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