Waynesburg University held its fifth annual Day of Giving on Thurs., Nov. 12, allowing alumni, students, faculty, staff and their families to support the school’s academic departments and athletic teams. According to the Waynesburg University website, the university exceeded their goal by $52,745 with a total of 905 donors and 38 states. 

The university website announced that the department and athletic team who earned the most were Biblical and Ministry Studies and the Softball team. 

Joshua Sumpter, Instructor of Biblical and Ministry Studies and University Chaplain, expressed how happy he was at the generosity of the people on campus and the community. 

“I am very grateful. This year was all about contributing to the greater University need with the Fund for Waynesburg,” Sumpter said. “I was happy to see our alumni, students, families and the local community contribute not only to that, but designate the Biblical and Ministry Studies program for the Day of Giving contest.”

Sumpter also explained how his department promoted itself.

“BMS students serve in the local community and use the education they are receiving to minister to others. Many of the donors to the BMS program come from our local churches and have formed relationships with our students,” Sumpter said. “We strive to build strong relationships in the community and with our graduates. I also encourage our students to ask family members to support our program. Relationships are key in ministry. Relationships are also the key to fundraising.”

The prize money won will end up going straight back into the student. 

“The prize money received goes directly to student learning experiences such as conferences, training events, guest speakers and resources that are provided to each major and minor,” Sumpter said. “The COVID pandemic has canceled a few of our opportunities this fall, but I look forward to finding ways to enhance the student learning experience in the spring with these funds.”

Sumpter went on to express his gratitude and joy to those who donated. 

“It is a joy to work with these students and I am grateful that alumni, friends and the local community contributes to their experience. This is what makes WU special.”