UR Here: Our Spider family rallies to support students during giving day

June 17, 2020

Spider Pride

During the University of Richmond’s second annual giving day, UR Here, the Spider community showed an unprecedented outpouring of support for students and the institution.

Faculty, staff, and students just completed a daunting academic year, facing many obstacles along the way. In response, over 4,200 alumni, parents, and other supporters around the world — more than 1,800 of whom were first-time donors — contributed more than $1.6 million for students who will need additional financial aid, personal assistance, and career support to continue their education and prepare for the future.

Almost twice as many donors as last year made gifts this year, including many who had not donated before. Young alumni, students, parents, faculty, and staff made a major impact, and many chose to make gifts by Venmo.

"The way our Spider community came together for Giving Day was nothing short of remarkable," said Martha Callaghan, vice president for Advancement. "Every gift is important as we work together to make sure that UR emerges stronger than ever from the challenges we face. The University continues to be made a better place because of the generosity and care of our alumni, families, faculty, staff, students, and friends."

Generous donors touched every area of campus during UR Here, especially Financial Aid, which received $430,000 that will be critical for students and their families in the coming year. More than half a million was dedicated to UR Athletics, and another half million to academics at UR.

In total, Spiders quadrupled their support from last year’s giving day, supporting 125 funds representing academics, athletics, greatest needs, student life, and well-being.

While students prepare to return in the fall, faculty and staff are working to meet the challenges facing all universities today. Though the giving day is over, the University of Richmond continues to see alumni and families step up with critical gifts before the June 30 deadline.