UTSA Giving Day returns April 1-2 to ‘Build the Nest’ for Roadrunners

MARCH 20, 2025 — UTSA is gearing up for the fifth annual UTSA Giving Day, set to take place on April 1 and 2. This spirited online fundraising event calls on the entire Roadrunner community — alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends — to unite in support of student success, academic programs and university initiatives.

This year, donors have a unique opportunity to “Build the Nest” of support for students in preparation for the integration with UT Health San Antonio this fall. The 2025 event also marks the final Giving Day of Be Bold: A Campaign for Our Future, making it a historic opportunity to contribute to the university’s bold future.

“Year after year, the immense generosity of our Roadrunner community continues to change lives,” said UTSA President Taylor Eighmy. “Each and every donor gift ensures our incredible students have access to the resources, opportunities and experiences they need to prepare them for success in the classroom and in the workplace. For these reasons and more, I encourage our community to support UTSA Giving Day.”

Since its launch in 2021, UTSA Giving Day has made a lasting impact, raising more than $2.3 million from thousands of donors to enhance experiential learning opportunities, student success initiatives and overall program support.

Spanning 1,969 minutes in honor of UTSA’s founding year, the 2025 UTSA Giving Day kicks off at 10:11 a.m. on April 1 in the Central Plaza on UTSA’s Main Campus, and all members of the Roadrunner community are invited. The fundraising drive runs through 7 p.m. on April 2, fueling a spirited competition among UTSA’s colleges and programs. Participants will vie for top spots on the donor leaderboard, with the highest-ranking groups earning additional funding.

Also on April 1, UTSA will host the Libraries & Museums Advisory Council from 4 to 5:30 p.m., culminating in an open reception for UTSA alumni and friends of the library at Amelia Bar & Lounge in the Creamery District. Owned by UTSA alum Moris Saide ’19, the bar will provide light refreshments as guests learn more about three key projects supporting UTSA Libraries & Museums.

Supporters can participate in dozens of matching gift opportunities and donor challenges to amplify their impact. Every gift — large and small — helps to “Build the Nest” for current and future Roadrunners.

“Each and every donor gift ensures our incredible students have access to the resources, opportunities and experiences they need to prepare them for success in the classroom and in the workplace.”

Making an impact across campus

Past Giving Days have provided essential funding for various university programs:

• Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design has expanded student scholarships, professional development and conference travel support.
  
  
• UTSA Athletics has strengthened student-athlete scholarships as well as enhanced funding for women’s sports.
  
  
• Student Emergency Fund has assisted students in meeting urgent needs so they can stay focused on school.
  
  
• This fall, the Spirit of San Antonio Marching Band (SOSA) will sport refreshed uniforms, a new look called The Alamo, thanks to donations and matching gifts in 2024.

This year, UTSA aims to surpass previous records with even more engagement and participation. The goal is 3,700 donors, which would set a new UTSA record.

“The momentum behind UTSA Giving Day grows stronger each year,” said Karl Miller Lugo, vice president for advancement and alumni engagement. “This event is a testament to the passion and commitment of our alumni, students, faculty, and friends. Together, we are investing in the future of UTSA.”

Join the movement

Roadrunners can get involved in UTSA Giving Day by making a gift, spreading the word on social media using #BuildTheNest, or signing up to be an ambassador to encourage others to give. Official ambassadors can earn UTSA swag.

Mark your calendar for April 1-2, and be part of this incredible tradition of giving. Visit givingday.utsa.edu to learn more or sign up as a UTSA Giving Day ambassador.

— Heather Green