Columbus State University Cougars from around the country answered the university’s call during its annual “CSU GIVES” day of giving by more than doubling their generosity compared to last year’s campaign.

The annual homecoming week fundraising drive, held on Tuesday, Oct. 19, raised $87,257—150% of its $58,000 goal. The university’s Office of Alumni Engagement set that goal in recognition of CSU’s founding in 1958.

“We are so grateful to our alumni, community partners and friends for joining us in this celebration of giving,” said Ashley Schley, CSU’s director of annual giving. “’CSU GIVES’ was a tremendous success, and every dollar raised is already positively affecting our students’ academic and co-curricular experiences.”

In total, 180 donors made online gifts to support a wide variety of university programs—including academic schools and programs, Athletics, as well as other areas resonating with alumni and donors.

The most popular areas of support included the CSU Fund, which provides university leaders with resources to address the most pressing needs and opportunities; need-based scholarships; the D. Abbott Turner College of Business; the College of Education and Health Professions; and the Miracle Riders Pediatric Nursing fundraiser.

In keeping with recognizing the university’s 1958 founding, donors were encouraged to make gifts of $19.58, $58 or $195.80. Outside of major gift donations, which Columbus State defines as single charitable gifts of $10,000 or more, the average CSU GIVES donation was $87.

“Philanthropic support is vital to providing our students with the ‘creative to the core’ experience for which Columbus State University is known—and isn’t limited to one day a year,” Schley noted. “Ongoing, year-round support from our Cougars charitable partners makes our academic, scholarship and community programs possible.

To make an online, charitable gift to Columbus State University, visit alumni.columbusstate.edu/give.