March 24, 2026 — From sunrise to sunset—and beyond—it all starts tomorrow.

Marist University’s third annual Day of Giving returns March 25, bringing Red Foxes together for 24 hours of generosity that will fuel years of momentum.

Last year, the Marist community came incredibly close to a historic moment. This year, we’re ready to finish what we started—rallying 4,000 Red Foxes to give, participate, and show what’s possible when we rise as one. Every person who gives moves us closer to a new milestone and unlocks even more support for the people who represent Marist’s future.

“This day is about what’s possible when our community comes together,” said Vice President of Advancement Kirk Swenson. “What matters most isn’t the size of the gift—it’s the number of people who choose to be part of this celebration. Every donor represents someone who believes in our students and the future of Marist.”

Challenges, Matches, and Momentum
Throughout the day, a wide range of challenges and matching gifts will unlock additional funding across campus from athletics to academics—creating new opportunities to maximize the impact of every gift.

The Marist Board of Trustees will once again lead a major challenge, releasing additional funds for the Marist Fund as donor milestones are reached.

“Through this challenge, the Board of Trustees is investing in what matters most—our students,” said Trustee James McGurk III '97. “As more Red Foxes take part, we’re able to unlock additional funding that expands opportunity across the University.”

In addition, a Presidential Fund for Equity in the Marist Experience matching gift will help expand access and opportunity for students—ensuring more Red Foxes can benefit from the experiences that define a Marist education.

Strong support from alumni is also helping to power the day across all areas, with graduates from all class years, majors, and experiences coming together to fuel a range of challenges and incentives—giving every Red Fox the chance to support what matters most to them.

Students are at the heart of the day, bringing energy across campus and rallying their peers to take part in efforts like the Class of 2026 Senior Legacy Challenge. “I’ve had the chance to really connect with my class over the past few years, and Day of Giving feels like a way to bring people together around something meaningful,” said Jared Kieran ’26, chair of the Senior Legacy Committee. “It’s about showing up and being part of the legacy we leave at Marist.”

Join Us! The countdown is on. Be part of Day of Giving on March 25 at marist.edu/dayofgiving.

Campus Activation

 
Scenes from the 2025 Day of Giving at Marist University. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist University.

Across campus, Day of Giving will come to life through a full day of activities, including giveaways featuring the famous Fox Socks, a Saxbys raffle, and shared moments for all.

Beginning at 11 a.m., students can search for hidden miniature Frankie plushies—each one unlocking a gift to the area of their choice—while thank-you card stations, raffles, and exclusive gear offer ways to take part throughout the day.

At 12:30 p.m., the Dyson Center becomes the heart of the celebration as the community marks the halfway point with Frankie and President Weinman, thank-you card stations, raffles, and exclusive Day of Giving giveaways.

As the sun sets, momentum continues with a shared thematic meal and additional giveaways. A 7:14 p.m. celebration on the Green (or Rotunda) will feature a raffle drawing, the launch of a $5,000 Marist Fund match, and a social moment inviting Red Foxes to share who they “rise for.”

Check out all the campus activities here!

“Every gift on Day of Giving supports the Marist experience—from scholarships and financial aid to hands-on learning, athletics, and student life,” said Swenson. “Together, these investments open doors, remove barriers, and create opportunities for students to thrive.”

 
Frankie is getting ready for the Day of Giving with miniature fox plushies for the “Find a Frankie” challenge. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist University.

Join us!
The momentum builds all day—and there’s always something new to unlock from midnight to midnight.

Follow along at marist.edu/dayofgiving to track progress, see challenges unfold in real time, and find your moment to take part by making a gift. Share who you rise for and help bring others into the celebration on March 25.