Red Foxes Rise Together

On March 20, 2024, the Marist Community united with a unique sense of purpose — one that could reimagine the meaning of giving back for Red Foxes everywhere.

Months of planning and anticipation led to Marist’s first-ever Day of Giving, when the community set out to embrace contemporary philanthropy through online giving with a clear charge: Secure 1,000 donors in 24 hours.

Giving days are often marked by online campaigns, social media pushes, and campus-wide events, all aimed at rallying the community in a concentrated effort to raise funds within a 24-hour period.

Marist committed to embracing this trend, marking a significant shift in its approach to fundraising – and displaying just how strong the community is by exceeding all goals and predictions as gifts were made, stories were shared, and events were celebrated.

“The success of the College’s Day of Giving is a testament to the unwavering spirit and generosity of Red Foxes everywhere – who not only surpassed the College’s goals, but also redefined what it means to come together as a community,” said Vice President for College Advancement, Chris DelGiorno ’88.

Themed “Red Foxes Rise Together,” the level of participation and donations truly shattered expectations, with the initial goal of 1,000 donors being surpassed before 10 a.m. The day concluded with Marist’s momentum on full display – totaling nearly 2,900 donors and raising more than $560,000.

Gifts at work

All Day of Giving gifts were directed to specific areas of the College that donors wished to support, including various athletic appeals, the Track and Turf Field, Presidential Fund for Equity in the Marist Experience, the Parents Fund, and the Senior Class Legacy. Donors could also give directly to the Marist Fund.

“There are so many things that would benefit from further support,” said Associate Vice President for Development, Mike Byerley. “Philanthropy is an important way to provide added value for our students and their families, opening doors for our Red Foxes.”

From helping students access a Marist education to academic experiences and study abroad, internships and community service, gifts of all sizes play a valuable role in awarding opportunities to Marist students. “Support from the Marist community has allowed me to excel in my studies and make long-lasting meaningful friendships,” said current student Chelsea Venters ’25. “I have been able to experience how wonderful Marist is through access to scholarships funded by alumni. Other students and I can be here because of this generosity. The support does not go unnoticed.”

Giving and Gratitude

The overwhelming success of the 24-hour fundraiser can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the many alumni, students, parents, staff, and friends of the College who were eager and enthusiastic to show their generosity and love for Marist.

“Marist holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I grew into the person I am today, and where I’ve built and continue to build some of the most meaningful relationships of my life.”

-Christopher Price ’02

“Watching our boys thrive as Red Foxes has been one of the greatest joys of our lives,” said chair of the Parents Council, Jackie Faherty. “We are so excited to contribute to a community that we have come to know and love and to hopefully encourage others to be a part of all that is so special about Marist College.”

-Jackie Faherty P’24/P’26, Parents Council Chair

“Donor support helped me to stay and finish my degree at the College. Without Marist’s generous financial aid packages, I would have had to move back home at the end of my first year. Marist has become a second home to me, and leaving was not something I was prepared to do. Thanks to Marist donors, I will be able to walk the stage on the green next year!”

-Miguel Rojas ’25