Hundreds of Students Celebrate Day of Thanks

More than 600 students helped make Montclair State’s Red Hawk Day of Thanks 2015 a big success on campus on February 26.  Part of a worldwide event, the University joined nearly 100 educational institutions in the U.S and abroad to participate in the third annual Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day, organized by CASE Affiliated Student Advancement Programs, a program of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.  The initiative aims to increase student understanding of philanthropy and grow engagement on campuses.

“Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day is a special opportunity to thank all of our donors whose contributions are at the core of Montclair State’s ability to provide an excellent education that prepares our students to be productive, enlightened and engaged citizens,” says Assistant Vice President for Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving Jeanne Marano. “By joining with CASE and other institutions worldwide, we are working with our current students – our future alumni – to build awareness of the importance of philanthropy and how it enhances their student experience.”

Institutions from the United States, England, Canada, Australia and other countries participated in the event through various activities, including “thank-a-thons,” daylong social media campaigns and student video interviews on what giving means to them.

The University held a variety of campus-wide events throughout the day to celebrate the many ways in which students and alumni give back to the institution. Identified with red and white balloons and manned by 40 students and Alumni Relations staff, seven campus philanthropy education stations provided information and activities, such as social media contests, opportunities for students to write thank you notes and record video messages of thanks to alumni and other promotions.

Red Hawk Day of Thanks was a success, with more than 600 students participating by signing in or signing a thank you card at the philanthropy education stations. Donor contributions to the 2015 senior class gift raised over $300.00.

Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day’s goal is to foster and enhance student involvement in all areas of advancement including fundraising, alumni relations, communications and marketing. The Office of Alumni Relations has also created a student alumni council, known as STAT, Student’s Today, Alumni Tomorrow. This active group helps to plan events such as Red Hawk Day of Thanks and was represented around campus at each location.

“Through STAT, I have learned about the many ways alumni impact my life as a student,” says Kayla Osborne, who is an active committee member. “I’m excited to be a part of this year’s Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day and to spread awareness to my friends and classmates.”

For more information, contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 973-655-4141 or alumni@mail.montclair.edu. To view photos from this year’s event or to read a recap, visit our website.