A weeklong fundraising campaign in mid-November brought in a record number of donations that will directly impact students' lives.

“The Spiders Helping Spiders campaign was a record-breaking success, bringing together our campus and Spiders around the world to provide vital support for students facing financial challenges,” said Martha Callaghan, vice president of Advancement. “The gifts will provide critical support for students in need, including emergency expenses, tuition assistance, and career-building opportunities.”

This year, 1,493 people contributed to the campaign — the highest number of donors ever.

The $410,640 raised represented a 30% increase from the previous year. Donations arrived from across the country, the U.K., and China. Matching gifts from alumni and families helped drive participation from other Spiders, and volunteer Advocates made individual gifts and worked to secure at least two more donors each in a “You+2” effort.

During the 2023-24 academic year, the effort provided:

• 1,022 undergraduates with donor-funded aid and scholarships for tuition.
• 138 students with aid from the Student Emergency Fund, totaling $40,528 for clothing, travel, technology, meals and support during holiday breaks, emergency housing, and medical needs.
• 238 students — the most ever — with aid from the Career Opportunity Fund, totaling $75,692 with an average award of $318. (Students can receive assistance for costs associated with professional wardrobes, graduate school application fees, and travel to interviews, conferences, job shadowing, or Spider Road Trips.)

"The opportunity to receive funding for a suit for my job networking efforts is not merely about acquiring clothing, it's about investing in my personal and professional development. It empowers me to present myself confidently, reinforces the importance of self-investment, and opens doors to new opportunities,” wrote one 2024 graduate. “As I embark on this journey, I am grateful for the support and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead."

Emergency requests helped students with medical expenses and winter clothing. One international student who was unable to go home was provided with meals during winter break.

Alumni spanning 70 years contributed this year, beginning with the class of 1954. Many donors honored individual students, faculty, and “a beloved roommate who went too soon.” Donors also included parents and grandparents of students and alumni, faculty and staff (including retirees), and current students.

“This annual campaign is just one event that highlights the way Spiders support each other,” said Callaghan. “We belong to an incredible community.”