ST. MARY’S CITY, Md. — St. Mary’s College of Maryland raised a record-breaking $456,391 from 3,881 donors during its 32-hour Giving Tuesday campaign that began at 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, and ended midnight Tuesday, Dec. 2.
The total surpassed the college’s goal of 3,500 donors and marked the most successful single-day fundraising effort in the history of the National Public Honors College.
Gifts supported more than 90 campus activities and funds, including varsity athletics, student clubs, academic departments, and scholarship programs. Dozens of designated “champions” — students, faculty, staff, and alumni — rallied their personal networks to drive contributions to specific causes.
Members of the St. Mary’s College Alumni Council established challenge funds that unlocked additional dollars when certain donor or gift thresholds were met, further boosting participation.
Current students played an active role beyond financial contributions. Those who donated a non-perishable food item to Solomon’s Shoppe, the campus food pantry, or hand-signed at least 25 thank-you cards for donors qualified for a special drawing. One participant was randomly selected at the close of the campaign directed an extra $2,500 to the cause of their choice.
The 2025 Giving Tuesday push extended from late Monday afternoon through the traditional Tuesday observance, allowing broader participation across time zones and schedules. Organizers credited the extended window, creative student incentives, and strong champion engagement for the record results.
Previous Giving Tuesday efforts at St. Mary’s College had never exceeded 3,000 donors or $400,000 in a single year. The 2025 campaign increased donor count by more than 35 percent over the prior record and pushed total dollars raised well into six figures above previous highs.
Funds raised will directly support student scholarships, academic programs, athletic teams, campus organizations, and other priorities identified by the college’s annual fund.
