You made a difference
with your gift in 2020
Join us on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 for this year's Pitt Day of Giving as we continue to make an impact on the Pitt community.
Dietrich students rise to the challenge on Pitt Day of Giving
Students in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences played a leading role in Pitt Day of Giving 2020 by winning the attendance challenge and earning $1,000 for their school. Dean Kathleen Blee empowered students to decide how the funds would be used, and they voted overwhelmingly to support the Student Emergency Assistance Fund, which helps students facing unexpected financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Blee matched the donation, doubling the total to $2,000. The fund has supported students dealing with medical emergencies, lost income, and family responsibilities. The initiative highlighted student leadership, compassion, and the powerful impact of philanthropy in times of crisis.
Falk teachers bring lessons to life with the Charlie Cart
Thanks to Pitt Day of Giving support, teachers at Falk Laboratory School brought hands-on learning to life with the purchase of a Charlie Cart—a mobile kitchen that turns lessons into interactive experiences. Funded through the 2020 Pitt Day of Giving, the cart allows students to explore topics like digestive and emotional health by preparing foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi. The experiential approach aligns with Falk’s long-standing commitment to authentic learning and has inspired educators to integrate cooking into science, social studies, and math lessons. Donor generosity and challenge funds made the purchase possible, giving teachers a versatile tool to engage students in creative, memorable, and meaningful ways.
Game Day Strategy Helps Club Lacrosse Net $3,500 on Pitt Day of Giving
Facing the high costs of equipment and travel, Pitt’s Club Lacrosse team turned to a donor-focused strategy on Pitt Day of Giving to raise essential funds. Instead of seeking large gifts, players were encouraged to ask five to 10 supporters for small donations, prioritizing participation over dollar amount. The approach helped the team raise $3,500—enough to fully fund one out-of-state tournament trip—and nearly earn bonus challenge funds. As a self-funded club sport, lacrosse relies on player dues, fundraising events, and strong alumni support. Pitt Day of Giving showcased how teamwork and community engagement can help sustain a close-knit program and enhance the student-athlete experience.
Pitt Students Help Hillman Researchers Get Closer to a Cure
Pittsburgh Attacks Cancer Together (PACT), a student organization at Pitt, raised critical funds for cancer research through a successful showing at the 2020 Pitt Day of Giving. By leading all student groups in number of gifts, PACT earned an additional $5,000 for its beneficiary, the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. Founded in 2014, PACT donates 100 percent of its fundraising proceeds to support innovative cancer research and programs. With traditional fundraisers canceled due to COVID-19, Pitt Day of Giving became the group’s primary source of support. Student leaders emphasized that donor generosity helped offset lost fundraising opportunities and move researchers one step closer to finding a cure.
Pitt Day of Giving helps Panthers Forward pay down debt for eligible students
Pitt Day of Giving support helped Panthers Forward reduce student loan debt for graduating seniors, easing financial stress during an uncertain time. Jordan Fields, a Pitt alumna with aspirations for law school, received up to $5,000 in federal loan relief through the program, giving her confidence to pursue her goals despite the pandemic. In 2020, more than 850 young alumni donations unlocked $10,000 in challenge funds, directly benefiting participating students. That year, Panthers Forward provided loan relief to 150 graduates, along with mentorship and networking opportunities. For Fields, the program not only reduced debt but also expanded her professional network and helped launch a career in public service—an impact she hopes to one day pay forward.
Pitt Day of Giving Helps Rowing Team Float Safely into a New Season
Pitt Day of Giving support helped the University of Pittsburgh Club Rowing team adapt safely to the challenges of the 2020 season. With traditional racing disrupted by the pandemic, donor funds enabled the team to purchase four two-person boats, allowing athletes to train and compete while maintaining proper social distancing. The investment was especially critical given the high cost of rowing equipment. Strong support from alumni and parents also helped the team earn participation and Power Hour funds during Pitt Day of Giving. This generosity allowed the rowing team to continue growing, competing against top East Coast programs, and upholding a culture of excellence, teamwork, and athletic achievement despite unprecedented circumstances.
Pitt Day of Giving helps UPJ honor fallen corrections officer while aiding students
Pitt Day of Giving helped the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown honor the legacy of fallen corrections officer Sgt. Mark Baserman while supporting students in justice administration and criminology. Established in his memory, the Sgt. Baserman Memorial Scholarship was first awarded in 2020 to a UPJ senior and continues to provide annual financial support to eligible students. Nearly 600 donors contributed more than $6,000 to the fund during Pitt Day of Giving, with gifts ranging from $5 to $100. The strong showing earned UPJ additional challenge funds and highlighted the collective impact of community giving in supporting students and honoring service.