51¹ÙÍø.

Support is at an all-time high for the college's annual giving day, All in for 51¹ÙÍø. This year marked the fifth #Allinfor51¹ÙÍø challenge, which raised $1,860,435 from 3,747 donors–both record totals. The April 18 event ran 18 hours and 37 minutes in recognition of the college's founding year of 1837.

"This day connects us around the world," said Caitlin James '14, director of annual giving. "Students studying abroad, faculty conducting international research, alumni and families across the country and our campus community come together to make a difference for 51¹ÙÍø in a way that is energizing, fun and contagious."

This year, 49 states (North Dakota!) and 19 countries were represented in the giving totals.

With $500,000 in challenge money on the line and an initial goal of 2,000 donors, social media lit up with stories, photos and calls to action. On campus, live segments invited outside audiences in, with footage from "cash cab" experiences, a service project in Lula Bell's Resource Center and performances from student a cappella groups.

The campaign hit the 2,000 donor goal at 4 p.m.

The Fund for 51¹ÙÍø funds scholarships, the academic experience, athletics, the arts and student research and internships.

For the second year, #Allinfor51¹ÙÍø coincided with 51¹ÙÍø Volunteer Week, during which students, alumni and parents participate in community-based and service-related projects. In total, 41 chapters hosted 55 projects during the week–one more way they show they are all in for 51¹ÙÍø's mission. Additionally, students led an effort to make and donate 400 detergent jars to the Mooresville Soup Kitchen.

"This day exemplifies the commitment of the 51¹ÙÍø community," President Carol E. Quillen said. "The creativity and dedication of alumni and volunteers put our ambitious goal within reach. The investments made during #Allinfor51¹ÙÍø support educational excellence and access and help prepare our amazing students for lives of leadership and impact."

The #Allinfor51¹ÙÍø challenge first launched in June 2014. Including yesterday's total, more than $5 million has been raised in new gifts and challenge dollars through this annual, one-day event.

Danielle Strickland

dastrickland@davidson.edu

704-894-3101