Donor Support Helps Student-Athletes Thrive

Smashing records is always a good thing in the world of sports, and supporters of Vassar’s athletics programs accomplished that—and then some—during the most recent Day of Giving, which spanned October 14 and 15. The goal of 2,300 donors was eclipsed just nine hours into the 29-hour event, and when it came to a close, Vassar parents, alums, and other supporters had raised more than $750,000 for its 29 intercollegiate athletics teams and the Department of Athletics and Physical Education, surpassing the previous record by more than $175,000.

“It was an amazing day of support for Vassar student-athletes,” said Michelle Walsh, Director of Athletics and Physical Education. “Donor generosity plays an integral role in student-athletes striving for and achieving excellence in competition, in the classroom, and in their campus and local communities.”

Eighty percent of each gift to a team goes directly to that team, and the remaining 20 percent is allocated to the Department of Athletics and Physical Education for programs and equipment that benefit all student-athletes. Funds allocated to the teams enable them to acquire necessary equipment and take training and team-building trips to compete in other parts of the country—and, in some cases, other parts of the world.

“When we held our first Day of Giving nearly 10 years ago, we never envisioned this degree of interest and engagement that we have received from our alums, families, and friends,” said Walsh. “We remain deeply grateful for the tremendous support.” —Larry Hertz