Giving Day 2026 Shatters Records

SHSU Giving Day Shatters Records

Sam Houston State University held its third annual Giving Day from April 21-22. This year, new and returning supporters blasted past previous-year totals, reaching over $564,000 from 870 gifts. Marking another year of outstanding support for the university.

About Giving Day

The online campaign centers around “1879,” the year the university was founded, and lasts one day, eight hours, seven minutes and nine seconds. Funds raised during the annual event support a myriad of university initiatives, such as scholarships, academic programs, athletics and the SHSU Alumni Association. 

“Each gift truly makes a difference,” said Matt Bethea, vice president of University Advancement. “I am grateful to see another year of donors increasing their impact through a record-breaking number of gift matches and challenges. Seeing so many alumni and current students engage in Giving Day demonstrates just how passionate our university community is about serving one another."

A key feature of the event is its customizability, with donors able to select which initiatives they would like to support. Gifts could be made to areas such as a specific college, a particular program at SHSU or through a Life Membership in the Alumni Association. 

University leaders are thrilled by the campaign’s continued success. Since its launch in 2024, gifts from Bearkat supporters across the globe have far exceeded expectations. In 2025, the university outpaced the inaugural year’s performance with 894 donors supporting SHSU’s essential programs for over $308,000. This year, SHSU supporters raised approximately $564,375 through 870 gifts. The use of leaderboards and match challenges also increased from 30 to 48 this year, driving even higher donor engagement. 

For both 2024 and 2025, the Alumni Association, Bearkat Athletics, the College of Business Administration and the College of Science and Engineering Technology received the most gifts. The 2026 leaderboard was led by Bearkat Athletics, the College of Business Administration and Student Affairs, bringing in 471 gifts collectively.

“Alumni can do great things when they come together and join efforts to elevate their university to greater heights and achievements,” said Charles Vienne, associate vice president of Alumni Relations & Annual Giving. “It takes all of us to create synergy, success and enhance the value of each graduate's degree, and through the support we have received this year, we will create life-changing opportunities for our students. Thank you for joining us in our mission to create an even better Sam Houston State University.” 

While Giving Day has officially ended, those who would like to support the university can do so by following this link.