Unite for USD Looks to Break Records Feb 16-17 2022
“The strength of the Coyote community always impresses me,” said USD President Sheila K. Gestring. “As we approach 160 years, I’m humbled by the legacy of our alumni and friends stepping up to support our students and institution as the world changes. Unite for USD allows us to highlight our progress and the initiatives that propel us forward.”
Last year, 1,557 donors raised $1,635,272 during Unite for USD. The event is on track to break records this year with even more initiatives to support students’ access to resources and opportunities for experiential learning, research, health and wellness, cultural awareness and more.
“Unite for USD is a celebration of our university, but it’s also a powerful demonstration of the culture of philanthropy on campus,” said USD Foundation President and CEO Steve Brown. “That sense of pride, community and legacy we feel as Coyotes inspires collective giving at various capacities, which – compiled together as a whole – truly transforms what USD can offer its students.”
Not only is this an event that benefits students, it’s an event that rallies student support. Students helped raise almost $25,000 last year in support of Charlie’s Cupboard, an on-campus pantry working to fight food insecurity among USD students. Through successful fundraising efforts, the pantry expanded into a larger space and increased its available products to better meet students’ needs after just one year of operation.
“Seeing the Coyote community unite together for such a great cause is a truly remarkable experience,” said Carter Larson, a senior elementary education major. “Having Unite for USD is just another reminder for myself and other students that the USD community is second to none when it comes to supporting initiatives that strengthen students firsthand.”
The fourth Unite for USD will kick off at 10:58 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 16, and conclude at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17. Interested in becoming a social ambassador or volunteer for Unite for USD? Contact alumni@usdalumni.com. Additional details for livestream viewing options, on-campus events and celebrations will be available closer to giving day.