For the fourth year in a row, Fairmont State University embarked on its annual Falcon Day of Giving on Thursday, October 27. During this 24-hour fundraising marathon, 891 alumni and friends joined together to raise more than $375,000 supporting 44 colleges and programs throughout campus. During this year’s Day of Giving, donors provided nearly $109,000 for scholarships, and $174,000 for athletic programs.

“We are so grateful for the alumni, students, faculty, staff, and community that came together to make this year’s Falcon Day of Giving a success” said Fairmont State Foundation President, Rachel Rae Dyer. “This year we’ve seen record engagement and record giving. It takes the entire Falcon Community coming together to support the important work of Fairmont State University. The generosity demonstrated on Day of Giving is a clear indication of the transformational impact Fairmont State University has had on the lives of so many. We want to ensure that everyone who participated knows how meaningful their gifts were. The results are both humbling and inspiring.”
Academic units raised close to $70,000 for departments, programs, and special initiatives. An additional $77,347 in gifts were earmarked for academic scholarships this year.

“The Day of Giving contributions have become a meaningful financial boost to each of the academic units. These dollars help support various needs across the campus such as scholarships, faculty development, teaching and/or learning enhancements,” according to Dr. Timothy Oxley, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Regardless of the initiatives or programs these very generous contributions support, the focus is centered on improving the students’ learning experience. We are grateful to those who see the Day of Giving as a worthwhile endeavor.”

The College of Liberal Arts raised the most dollars for a college or school this year, earning $30,710 for several programs, including the Academy for the Arts and the Community Arts program.

“The Academy for the Arts and Community Arts programs at Fairmont State University are so incredibly grateful for all of the very generous donors we had on Falcon Day of Giving,” Leigh Anne Bolyard, Director of Performing Arts Outreach and Development expressed. “The support from our community during our Falcon Day of Giving kickoff concert and Falcon Day of Giving was incredible. These donations will help us continue to provide the top-notch performing arts experiences that our community is accustomed to seeing at Fairmont State University.”

Gifts for the Academy for the Arts program will provide scholarships for students, fund the Youth Theatre Company Spring Musicals, and support visiting artists for youth masterclasses. Donations for Community Arts will go toward the purchase of microphones for use during theatre productions and audio/visual monitor system upgrades. These gifts will also help to offset the cost of the Town and Gown Community plays and musicals and allow for visiting artists to perform free community concerts.

Athletics raised $174,271 for team sports and athletic programs, and an additional $31,455 for athletic scholarships. These gifts will allow the department to increase scholarships for deserving students-athletes, permit the purchase of specialized training equipment, and help offset the cost of increased travel expenses.

“I can’t say enough about the support the Athletics Department received on Day of Giving. The generosity of our Falcon Fans was evident to all,” said Greg Bamberger, Director of Athletics. “Ultimately, your gifts will help to enhance our programs in many ways. Whether you are a parent, a student-athlete (past or present), University staff or faculty, alum, or a friend of the Fighting Falcons, your generosity is greatly, greatly appreciated.”

“What a day our Day of Giving was!” Dr. Dianna Phillips, Fairmont State’s Interim President, said. “Once again, this community showed its generosity and its commitment to our shared mission of making educational and professional dreams come true. I am so grateful for this community—each year on our Day of Giving we rally together to manifest a shared responsibility to sustain and enrich the life-changing experience of a Fairmont State education.”

Special events leading up to Falcon Day of Giving included a mini-golf tournament hosted by the College of Business and Aviation, a kick-off concert hosted by the Community Arts program, and a happy hour event hosted by the Fairmont State Foundation and the Marion County Chamber of Commerce.
During Day of Giving festivities, the Sweet Taste of Victory challenge was held again this year. 9 of the 17 coaches were rewarded with a pie in the face for having 40 or more donors support their respective teams. Additionally, Athletic Director Greg Bamberger received a pie in the face in recognition of the number of donors surpassing 300 for athletics overall.

A dunk tank challenge was introduced this year, allowing willing participants to risk a plunge in exchange for dollars toward their preferred department or program. Courageous volunteers included Dr. Alyssa Schwartz on behalf of the Marching Band, Dr. Paul Reneau on behalf of Health & Human Performance, Jeff McCormick on behalf of the Police Academy, Justin Rader on behalf of Student Government and Spencer Flanagan on behalf of the Staff Council Scholarship. In celebration of meeting the goal, Dr. Dianna Phillips took the plunge herself on Friday afternoon.

Fairmont State University and the Fairmont State Foundation wish to thank all of our donors, ambassadors, and volunteers for participating in the 2022 Falcon Day of Giving.

Alumni and friends of Fairmont State University contributed more than $361,000 on Thursday, October 28 during the Third Annual Falcon Day of Giving. 

This year, the Fairmont State Foundation set a goal to raise $325,000 in 24 hours, and 605 donors helped exceed that goal. Funds raised during the 2021 Day of Giving will provide support to 39 different programs campus wide, filling departmental needs and providing academic scholarships.
 
Donors provided nearly $70,000 for academic and athletic scholarships, along with more than $179,000 earmarked for athletic programs. Almost $59,000 was provided for the Falcon Fund, which supports the greatest needs of the University. More than $45,000 was received for individual colleges to use in support of departmental scholarships, faculty initiatives and special projects. The College of Science & Technology earned the most individual donors (67) and greatest dollar amount ($13,875) for an academic unit. Women’s softball secured the most donors for athletics programs at 49, and women’s basketball had the highest dollar amount of all athletics programs this year at $41,940.
 
“This fundraising effort gives the various areas extra funding over and above any state budget amount that they receive to run their operation,” according to Gary K. Bennett, Fairmont State Foundation President. “This gives them money to do the things that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to do. It affords student scholarships in addition to what the state provides. It provides for some lab equipment that folks are interested in. It provides for some additional instructional equipment that wasn’t in the budget this year. It’s for those extra things they believe are needed to provide a better education experience for the students.”
 
Throughout the year, the Foundation works to secure matching funds in support of the challenges offered during Day of Giving. Some of these generous matching gift donors include Fairmont State Board of Governors member, Kevin Rogers and his wife Tina, who provided matches for football, men’s basketball and women’s basketball programs. Tom and Lori Kliethermes provided match gifts made in support of academic and athletic scholarships.
 
Fairmont State alumnus, Robert “Buck” Thompson, also matched gifts to the women’s basketball, men’s tennis and women’s tennis programs. William Laughlin and his wife Lois Muto Laughlin matched gifts in support of academic programs and athletic scholarships.
 
Additionally, the Foundation received corporate sponsorships from DQE Communications, Fairmont Kitchen Center, Coal Country Miniature Golf and Keystone Realty Group (Christina Gouzd, Broker).

“Once again, the Falcon Family has proven to be second to none when it comes to demonstrating their support,” said Fairmont State University President, Mirta M. Martin. “We shattered our goal. The funds raised are vital to the University. Through our donors’ generosity, dreams will be realized – academic and athletic programs will get stronger, and our faculty, staff and students will soar even higher. I am so grateful for this family each and every day.”

Fairmont State University’s Third Annual Falcon Day of Giving will take place on Thursday, October 28, with the Fairmont State Foundation aiming to raise $325,000 during the 24-hour campaign. Falcon Day of Giving encourages alumni and friends of Fairmont State to donate to the areas that matter most to them.

“Falcon Day of Giving is an opportunity for the entire Falcon Family to join together in support of a common goal. Last year, more than 600 loyal alumni and donors participated on Falcon Day of Giving, raising more than $300,000,” said Gary K. Bennett, president of the Fairmont State Foundation. “Contributions during this special fundraising event support academics, athletics and a number of programs all across campus.”

In preparation for the 2021 Falcon Day of Giving, donors have already pledged more than $149,000 for special challenges throughout the day. These giving opportunities allow donors to double their gift in areas including scholarships, colleges, programs and athletic teams.

Some of these generous matching gift donors include Fairmont State Board of Governors member, Kevin Rogers and his wife Tina, who have pledged a total of $50,000 for football, men’s basketball and women’s basketball programs. Tom and Lori Kliethermes have pledged $15,000 to match gifts made in support of academic and athletic scholarships. Fairmont State alumnus, Robert “Buck” Thompson, will be matching gifts to the women’s basketball, men’s tennis and women’s tennis programs in the amount of $5,000 per team.

William Laughlin and his wife Lois Muto Laughlin, who is an alumna of Fairmont State, are retired faculty members that have pledged a total of $12,500 in support of academic programs and athletic scholarships. Fairmont State Foundation Board member, Kevin Wilfong and his wife Donna, have pledged $10,000 supporting criminal justice scholarships and the football program.

“The Fairmont State community – our campus community, our alumni and the cities and towns that support us – is one of the most caring and giving families I’ve ever been a part of,” said Fairmont State University President, Mirta M. Martin. “Each year they demonstrate their generosity during our annual Day of Giving event. The funds raised enable us to honor our commitment to providing transformative, affordable educational experiences – experiences that include athletics, academics and countless other programs across campus. I am so grateful for our dear Falcon Family, and I encourage everyone to take part in this fun and crucially important event.”

This year, in partnership with Coal Country Miniature Golf and Keystone Realty Group (Christina Gouzd, Broker), the Foundation will host a mini-golf tournament on the evening of the Day of Giving. Adults 21 and older can register two or four-person teams for an evening of fun in support of the fundraising event. Registration is required at https://www.fsufoundation.org/giving/minigolf, and includes green fees, putter, golf balls and one drink ticket. Teams must register and pay as a group.

Updates on total gifts received will be reported throughout the day on Fairmont State University and Fairmont State University Foundation social media platforms. In addition, highlights featuring interviews, special performances, challenges and donor shout outs will be available for viewing on social media during the 24-hour campaign.
To learn more and view the entire listing of matches and challenges visit, https://falconsgive.fsufoundation.org.

Fairmont State University alumni and friends contributed more than $300,000 in a 24-hour period on the second Falcon Day of Giving on Thursday, October 29, exceeding the fundraising goal by more than $50,000. 

“Our loyal alumni and friends have not let COVID-19 or anything else stand in the way of supporting Fairmont State University,” said Julie R. Cryser, president of the Fairmont State Foundation, which organized and carried out the campaign on behalf of Fairmont State University. 

More than 600 donors, up from 387 last year, provided funds for everything from athletic scholarships to support for student programs and university projects. Athletics raised more than $140,000, with the men’s and women’s basketball teams leading the effort at nearly $29,000 and $24,000, respectively.  

Donors gave more than $89,000 to support scholarships, both academic ($44,000) and athletic ($18,000), while schools and colleges earned nearly $35,000 to support discretionary funds that can be utilized for scholarships, faculty support or projects. 

“Whether they work here, are friends of the University, or are Falcon alumni themselves, these donors know and have seen firsthand the transformative impact a Fairmont State education can have,” Mirta M. Martin, president of Fairmont State University, said. “Their gifts represent their belief in our efforts. Even in the midst of a historic, global pandemic, our community pulled together and proved, once again, that there is simply no stronger community than the Falcon Family.” 

Matches and challenges secured earlier in the year and made by alumni and friends helped to spur giving. A number of donors who contributed last year generously increased their giving this year in response to the pandemic and the University’s needs. Matches and challenges increased from 2019’s Falcon Day of Giving by nearly $50,000. 

“None of this would have been possible without the support of our alumni and friends or the dogged determination of our coaches, deans, faculty, staff and students,” Cryser said. “We can’t thank the donors enough and we can’t thank those who helped us spread the word and encourage participation enough, either.” 

The Day of Giving provides funding for students and the University, but it also serves to raise awareness about Fairmont State University and funding opportunities. People from as far away as Louisiana and California were sharing social media posts about the Day of Giving and encouraging friends, family and peers to give.  

“It was exciting to see the Falcon Family coming together to support Fairmont State University, its students, faculty and staff, especially after such a difficult year for so many people” Cryser said.  

During the inaugural Fairmont State University Day of Giving more than 370 donors helped to raise nearly $200,000 setting a record for the most gifts the University has ever received in one day. 

“We’re so proud of the Fairmont State University community of alumni and friends who came together to show the power of philanthropy,” Julie R. Cryser, president of the Fairmont State Foundation, said. The Foundation raises money on Fairmont State University’s behalf.

“Our goal was to bring awareness to the opportunities that exist to make real change in the lives of our Fairmont State University students, and we met and exceeded that goal,” she said.

Fairmont State University Athletics had the highest number of donors and received a little more than $80,000 to support scholarships and athletic teams. More than $22,000 was raised to support athletic scholarships alone.

“I would like to thank Julie Cryser and all Day of Giving ambassadors for their hard work during this year’s inaugural Day of Giving,” Chad Fowler, Director of Athletic, said. “Financial support is critical to our teams and student athletes and we are pleased with the overwhelming support we received during Day of Giving.”

On the academic side, the School of Business & Aviation raised nearly $30,000 to support students and faculty within the school. The College of Liberals Arts came in second on the academic side, raising nearly $18,000.

The Fairmont State Foundation raised more than $17,000 for overall academic scholarship support, which has been a focus for President Mirta M. Martin.

“When I talk about the impact of the Falcon Family, I mean it!” Dr. Martin said. “By raising nearly $200,000 in a single day, our friends, families, and alumni, here and around the world, are making it possible for Fairmont State to uphold its promise to provide an exceptional, affordable education and a one-of-a-kind college experience to our students.”
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A variety of individuals and local businesses helped with rallying support during the event by creating matches and challenges, creating a sense of competition between the various academic and athletic units.

“We can’t thank those who helped us along the way with matches and challenges enough,” said Cryser. “Without their support, we would never have been successful.”

The Day of Giving the final numbers are still being calculated. Donors who may have missed giving and wish to still give can go to fsufoundation.org.

Thanks to donors, the Fairmont State Foundation can give more than $1 million annually in scholarships to Fairmont State University students and support a variety of academic and athletic initiatives. 

Fairmont State University and the Fairmont State Foundation have teamed up for the inaugural Falcon Day of Giving November 7 – one day to raise $250,000 to support scholarships, academic units, and athletics.

Donors from throughout the region have provided more than $100,000 in matches and challenges to encourage people to give online or through the lunch-time drive-through at the Fairmont State Foundation.

The giving day will kick off at midnight on Nov. 7 and end at 11:59 p.m. All gifts that are made in that time period will be counted toward the Falcon Day of Giving goal of $250,000.
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To heat up the competition, matches and challenges will encourage givers to log on to falconsgive.fsufoundation.org. They will also provide academic and athletic programs a chance to double or triple their giving on that day.

“By logging on to the website now, you can create a strategy for ensuring that your favorite program or sport gets as many matches and challenges as possible to increase the amount of money they will receive on November 7,” Fairmont State Foundation President Julie R. Cryser said. “But you won’t be able to capture these opportunities without logging on that day and giving or stopping by our lunch-time drive-through.”

Global matches are available for both academics and athletics, as well as a lunch-time challenge that will offer $1,000 to the academic unit with the most donations between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Matches and challenges include:

• The Mike Ross Family Foundation General Scholarship Match, which will match scholarship gifts dollar for dollar up to a total of $10,000.
• The Dr. Mirta M. Martin Students for Scholarships Challenge, which will unlock a $1,000 gift for scholarships if 40 students donate on Nov. 7.
• The Huntington Bank Athletic Scholarship Match, which will match donations to athletic scholarships dollar for dollar up to $10,000.
• The Fighting Falcon Athletic Match, an anonymous gift to match any gifts made to any athletic program up to $7,500.
• The Tom and Lori Kliethermes Global Academic Matching Gift, which will match any funds given to any academic program dollar for dollar up to $10,000.
• The Dr. Mirta M. Martin Marching Band Challenge will provide a dollar for dollar match up to $1,000 donated to the marching band for new instruments.
• An anonymous Overall Academic Match will provide dollar for dollar matching funds to any academic unit or program up to $12,500.
• The William and Lois Muto Laughlin Academic Matches will provide $2,000 for each academic unit for a total gift of $10,000 to match gifts made to the units.
• The Gary K. and Barbara J. Bennett School of Business match will provide a dollar for dollar contribution of up to $5,000 to the school.
• Nick Oliveto has provided a $2,000 match for the National Security & Intelligence program. 
• The Mike Ross Family Foundation will match Athletic Scholarship gifts dollar for dollar up to $10,000.
• The Dr. Mirta M. & John Martin Baseball Matching Gift will provide a $500 matching gift.
• The Lady Falcons Basketball Matching Gift, through an anonymous donor, will provide $2,500 in dollar for dollar matches.
• The Michael Adams and Kristen Correnti Faett Football Matching Gift will unlock $10,000 if the football program receives $10,000 in gifts.
• The Wrestling Program Matching Gift, made anonymously, will unlock $2,500 in dollar for dollar matches.
• The Foundation President’s Lunch Time Rush Challenge will provide $1,000 to the academic unit that has the greatest number of donations between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
• The Fairmont State Foundation Board Chairman’s Challenge will provide up to $5,000 if it is matched by Fairmont State Foundation board members.
• The Westside Market Instagram Challenge will unlock $7,500 if 30 people provide Instagram posts from the market on the Day of Giving.

For those who would like a quick lunch and to swipe their credit card to donate, donors can drive through in the front of the 1300 Locust Ave. Fairmont State Alumni Center building between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Those who choose to give at the alumni center will receive a Country Club Bakery pepperoni roll, donated by the local bakery, and a bag of chips. Participants can also get a picture with Freddie the Falcon, who will be on hand.

“We want to make this a fun, memorable day with a purpose -- One Day, One Goal, One Falcon Family – to raise $250,000 in one day and show the region that we are Falcon Strong,” Cryser said. “We would encourage you to make a donation and help us unlock all of our matches and challenges.”

Donors can go to falconsgive.fsufoundation.org to make their donation. You can also help spread the word on social media platforms by becoming a social media ambassador.  To sign up as a social media ambassador visit www.fsufoundation.org/news/2019/ambassador.