DSU HF 2026 Give Day Secures $121,200 for Students

The DSU Heritage Foundation (DSU HF) is celebrating the success of its 6th Annual DSU Give Day after raising a record total of $121,200 in 24 hours on November 5th. The donations from the event support student scholarships and campus programs for the following year. This was the fourth consecutive year that the DSU HF set and exceeded its $100,000 goal with the help of individual donors, alumni, community organizations, staff, faculty, students, and the endless passion of the DSU HF team. The collective efforts from the Blue Hawk community turned the day into a display of how individual contributions can come together to make a lasting difference for students at Dickinson State University (DSU).

“Seeing the excitement and participation surrounding this year's Give Day makes me incredibly excited for what's ahead,” said Chloe Gunderson, DSU Heritage Foundation Director of Alumni Relations & Events. “There is so much potential to continue growing this campaign, bringing more Blue Hawks into the conversation and creating even more opportunities to support our students.”

The DSU HF set six challenges to keep the energy up throughout the marathon event. The DSU HF exceeded its main goal of $100,000 from 250 donors, finishing with 384 donors, and once again completed the 50 States Challenge by securing at least 2 donors from every state. The Rod Kleinjan Challenge raised $14,378 in support of athletic scholarships, and the Young Alumni Challenge raised $700.69. The Students Challenge exceeded expectations with 110 current DSU students donating to the DSU HF. The Nursing Program Challenge raised $34,707 in support of nursing education. This year DSU President Scott Molander committed to the goal of securing 5 donations from past DSU Presidents and Vice Presidents, which he completed.

“The success of this year’s Give Day is a true reflection of the generosity and commitment of our Blue Hawk family,” said Ty Orton, DSU Heritage Foundation Executive Director. “Raising a record $121,200 is an incredible accomplishment, but what stands out most is the number of people who came together to make it happen. Every gift, regardless of size, makes a difference in the lives of our students. We are grateful to everyone who continues to believe in Dickinson State University and invests in its future.”

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Written by Sarah Griffis – DSU HF Content Writer