One Day. One KU. returns for 24 hours of giving to support KU

LAWRENCE — After a successful first year in 2018, the 24-hour giving campaign One Day. One KU. returns Wednesday, Feb. 20, to support the University of Kansas.

Alumni, friends and fans from around the globe will unite in that 24 hours to provide philanthropic support to schools and programs across all KU campuses: Lawrence, the Edwards Campus in Overland Park and all three KU Medical Center campuses in the state — Kansas City, Wichita and Salina. 

“On this meaningful day, Jayhawks around the world can show their pride and contribute to their passion,” Chancellor Douglas A. Girod said. “Donors participating in this 24-hour event will provide lasting support that will enable the university to improve the student experience, serve Kansas communities and grow our research enterprise.”

Last year, during the inaugural One Day. One KU. event, donors gave 1,898 gifts totaling $734,621. It was the largest number of gifts ever received for KU in a single day. The gifts supported more than 225 areas across all five campuses and created more opportunities for students, faculty and programs.

Even the most knowledgeable KU trivia buffs might not know the importance of Feb. 20, 1863, the date that is the cornerstone of One Day. One KU. On that day, Kansas Gov. Thomas Carney signed into law a bill locating KU in Lawrence. The bill passed the state House of Representatives by just one vote.

The day provided the perfect motivation to give to KU, said Gregory Leung, an alumnus who was working in Sweden when he gave his gift in 2018. “One Day. One KU. is a great way for alumni to support the university no matter where they are in the world,” he said.

Some donors will be providing gift challenges and matching opportunities that day to encourage donations in specific areas that will increase the impact of each gift. Students will be promoting the event and providing more information that day at all campuses.

Gifts made online, by phone and in person between midnight and 11:59 p.m. CST on Feb. 20 will count toward One Day. One KU. Visit ku.edu/onedayoneku to find out more and to donate.

KU Endowment is the independent, nonprofit organization serving as the official fundraising and fund-management organization for KU. Founded in 1891, KU Endowment was the first foundation of its kind at a U.S. public university.