Your Record-Breaking Generosity This Day of Caring
April 4, 2025
Dear Southern Community,
Today, we wake up to something extraordinary—proof that our Southern spirit is stronger than ever. From first-year scholars to long-time alumni, from classrooms to conference rooms, your passion and pride echoed across every corner of our Southern community.
In many ways, our 10th annual Day of Caring surpassed our expectations and even set new records. I am filled with gratitude, inspiration, and pride as I reflect on what we’ve achieved together.
A record-setting 2,001 individuals gave on Day of Caring!
Let that sink in. During these challenging financial times and economic uncertainty, more people gave than ever before. This isn’t just a milestone—it’s a movement. Every gift, every challenge, every act of generosity added up to something historic.
I’m especially thankful for our student scholars—your decision to give back to Southern speaks volumes about your vision, compassion, and commitment to shaping the future of our university. Many of you gave even when you had little to give—an act of generosity that humbles and inspires us all.
While final numbers are still being confirmed by our Office of Annual Giving, I’m excited to offer a glimpse of the incredible impact we’ve made.
- We raised $866,761– our second-highest total to date!
- A record 2,001 donors gave!
- Of these, 261 student-scholar donors contributed $9,018 – both all-time highs!
I’m also proud to highlight the results of the first Dr. D Class Challenge, which sparked spirited competition among our scholars. Congratulations to the Class of 2026, who excelled with the most donors and earned $5,000 to put toward the fund of their choice. You’ve set an inspiring example for your peers!
One of the most wonderful things about Day of Caring is the amazing number of donors who step up to match contributions, present challenges, support multiple causes, and encourage their peers to get involved. This truly reflects a deep belief in our community. Matching donors give knowing their funds will support not only their favorite programs, but also the initiatives that our community and donors value most.
This year wasn’t just about giving—it was about showing who we are as a university: resilient, united, compassionate, and driven by purpose. To every scholar who rallied for power hours and helped meet my match, to our dedicated faculty, staff and leadership who contributed to and championed creative challenges, to our passionate alumni who showed up in record numbers, and to our community partners and the Division of Institutional Advancement—thank you for making this moment possible.
The future is bright at Southern with you all leading the way.
In gratitude,
Dr. Dwayne Smith
Interim President