Donors Make Waves in Historic Seahawks Give Campaign
Photo: Michael Spencer/UNCW
UNCW made waves during a record-breaking Seahawks Give, the university's annual 24-hour giving challenge. The 2025 campaign raised more than $4.1 million, thanks to the generosity of more than 1,900 donors.
“The historic generosity shown by the campus community and friends of the university is a testament to UNCW's commitment to transforming lives through education,” said Chancellor Aswani Volety. “We will honor this generosity by continuing to provide unparalleled opportunities, nationally prominent programs, a commitment to community, and world-class operations and infrastructure. In Seahawk Spirit, a heartfelt thank you to those who participated in this year's day of giving.”
In celebration of UNCW’s history and to help build the university’s future, donors— including more than 715 alumni, 340 parents, 320 employees and 230 students— supported all five academic colleges and 14 athletic programs.
“This year’s Seahawks Give was an incredible celebration of the collective power of generosity. Alumni, parents, students, faculty and friends came together to make waves for UNCW—illustrating a shared belief in our students and the life-changing impact of education,” said Ellie Barker, director of annual giving.
From noon to noon on April 8 and 9, the campaign included 35 online donor challenges that unlocked more than $60,000 in bonus funds; four regional engagement events hosted throughout North Carolina; and more than 150 campus and community advocates and volunteers.
Nearly $500,000 was raised to support academic programs, more than $45,000 to support student programs and services, and more than $3 million to support Seahawk Athletics.
“We can’t thank Seahawk Nation enough for all their generous donations! Championships are not possible without strong financial support,” said Michael Oblinger, director of athletics.
The 2025 campaign is a significant increase from previous campaigns. During the 2024 day of giving, 1,977 donors raised $651,591 and 1,692 donors raised $261,533 in 2023.
The success of the 2025 Seahawks Give campaign demonstrates the commitment made by the campus community and beyond to current and future Seahawks. The contributions made during this campaign will support student scholarships, academic excellence, groundbreaking research, athletics, student life and thousands of programs across campus that support student engagement and success.
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