Hundreds of Elmhurst University alumni, friends and members of the campus community celebrated Giving Day 2025 by raising more than $230,000 for a range of programs and initiatives benefiting students.

Proceeds from the 24-hour #JayItForward fundraiser on April 16 totaled $231,862. The philanthropic gifts enable the University to invest in areas that enhance the student experience, empowering students to excel throughout their academic journey and the career and life experiences that follow. The areas of support include:

• The Annual Fund, which contributes to student scholarships, operational and program costs, and other University needs with unrestricted, immediate-use dollars.
• The Health Sciences Building Fund, which supports the construction of the new health sciences building that will bring together Elmhurst’s nursing, public health, occupational therapy and communication sciences and disorders programs, and create greater opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
• Elmhurst University Athletics, which helps ensure that student-athletes have the training, transportation, facility enhancements, equipment and other items they need to be high-achieving students and confident athletes.
• Support Your Bluejay Circle, which supports University programs of the donor’s choosing and that defined their Elmhurst experience.

This year, gifts came from 653 unique donors who made 716 total contributions. Among the donors were 74 students who gave $1,735. A large share of the gifts was due to the efforts of athletics coaches, student-athletes and their families. More than half of Giving Day donors gave to the Department of Athletics, with the women’s volleyball program raising the most dollars out of all athletics programs, and women’s soccer taking the top spot for most donors.

Gifts made throughout the day unlocked numerous giving challenges from alumni and friends, including Early Bird, Health Sciences, Athletics Communication and Parents challenges.

“JayItForward Giving Day is more than the dollars and donors. It is about showcasing Elmhurst University and showing everyone that when Bluejays come together to support fellow Bluejays, the response is always overwhelming,” said Vice President for Institutional Advancement Lia Kampman. “The impact of this year’s Giving Day will benefit future Bluejays for years to come, so we thank all of our donors for making this year so successful.”

To support Elmhurst University with a philanthropic gift, visit elmhurst.edu/give or call the Office of Institutional Advancement at (630) 617-3600.