In just 36 hours, 5,297 donors came together to raise a record-breaking $3.4 million for the University of Richmond — marking the most successful UR Here Giving Day ever.

On April 8–9, Spiders around the world showed what it means to be here for UR, surpassing previous records with donors supporting students, unlocking matches and challenges, and investing in Richmond’s future.

“It’s amazing to see what the University of Richmond community came together to achieve on our 8th Annual Giving Day,” said Martha Callaghan, vice president of Advancement. “Each year, more alumni, parents, and members of our campus community are showing up for UR Here, and each year we’ve raised more money to support the incredible things happening on our campus.”

Support came from across the Spider network, including 2,025 alumni from classes 1950 to 2025, 1,442 parents, 560 students, and 393 faculty and staff. Donors represented all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and 19 countries.

Campaign participants could designate their gifts to schools, departments, athletic teams, financial aid, or the UR Annual Fund. Top areas supported included the Men’s Basketball Student Athlete Development Fund, the Men’s Lacrosse Fund, the UR Annual Fund (greatest needs), the Jepson School of Leadership Studies Dean’s Impact Fund, and the newly established Class of 2026 Scholarship.

More than 350 students, faculty, staff, and local alumni gathered on the Forum for a UR Here celebration. Participants helped unlock an additional $17,500 for the annual fund. A special experience welcomed Class of 2026 donors. The Senior Legacy Committee and the Office of Annual Giving sponsored the event.

Additional events helped build momentum, including alumni receptions with President Kevin F. Hallock. Other events included a Jepson Student Government Association’s giving day event that included a dunk tank and “Happy UR Here Hour” celebrations in cities across the U.S. and in Rome.  

Callaghan said she was grateful to the generosity of the many Spiders who contributed to the campaign.

“This effort shows that there is great strength in numbers — when everyone comes together, it strengthens our web.”