Red Day breaks donor record

Lamar University’s annual Red Day, a virtual giving event, broke records this year, raising $162,349 from 553 donors across 658 gifts. The event, which engages alumni, students, and friends of the university, saw significant support for a wide range of academic programs, athletic initiatives, and student support services.

"As a student, Red Day was a great opportunity to see firsthand the impact that gift-giving has on student life," 2024 Red Day host Drake Rothenberger said. "I got to learn about our new DBA program in business, applications in disaster relief using augmented reality from the College of Arts and Sciences, and the unique bilingual culture we foster in our Deaf Studies/Deaf Education Department."

The College of Business led the fundraising efforts, bringing in $42,170, followed by the College of Engineering with $20,702. LU Athletics rounded out the top three, securing $20,000 in donations. Other key areas of support included the College of Fine Arts and Communication ($18,182), the LU Forever Fund ($14,245), and the College of Arts and Sciences ($11,695).

Other areas of support included:

• College of Education and Human Development – $8,050
• Alumni Affairs – $4,525
• General Scholarship Fund – $3,035
• Cardinal Emergency Fund – $2,765

“Red Day 2024 was so successful because of the combined efforts of LU students, faculty, staff, and, of course, our generous donors—a record number of whom stepped up to give to areas of the university most important to them,” Jeff Spoeri, associate vice president for university advancement said. “The money raised on Red Day, like that given throughout the entire year, goes directly to help Lamar University students succeed and to continue building our academic, athletic, and student support programs to national and global recognition.”

Spoeri emphasized the cultural significance of Red Day for Lamar University, calling it a “touchstone” event for the community.

"Each year, it allows Cardinals everywhere to celebrate everything that LU is and to give back, to ensure that future generations of students have the opportunity to reach their academic and professional goals," he said. "All of us at LU are grateful for this tremendous outpouring of philanthropic support, especially from the more than 100 individuals who made their first-ever donations to Lamar University during Red Day this year."

With the success of Red Day 2024, Lamar University continues to strengthen its academic and student life programs, ensuring that future generations of Cardinals can thrive. The community’s generous donations are a testament to the deep bond shared by alumni, students, faculty, and supporters.

For those interested in contributing to Lamar University and supporting its mission, please visit Lamar University Giving.