A palpable passion for philanthropy and giving exists throughout the School of Public Policy, from the students, to the faculty and staff, to the alumni, to community advocates. On March 6, the SPP community came together to focus that passion on Giving Day to support fellowships, scholarships, programming and research at the School. During this year’s Giving Day, SPP raised more than $58,000 through 210 gifts and saw a significant increase in participation.
Each year, the University of Maryland hosts Giving Day, a campus-wide 24-hour fundraising challenge where each unit at the University works to raise funds to support their areas. Because of the School’s focus on embracing a culture of giving, it was important to work together to increase the level of participation during this year’s Giving Day. SPP’s number of alumni supporters increased by 50 percent, student supporters increased by 20 percent and overall supporters increased by 34 percent.
One donor commented, “I wouldn't be where I am in my career without the Rawlings program and its great staff.” And another said, “Support of new leaders for nonprofits that are innovative and compassionate will pave the path forward for neighbors around the world!”
The School also competed with other units on campus to win matching funds from the University. SPP won the Faculty/Staff Challenge and the School/College Donors Challenge to win an extra $3,200 towards the total amount raised.
Faculty members at SPP teach courses and lessons on philanthropy, and during Giving Day the School community worked together to put those lessons into action.